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South Korean Companies Accelerate Investments in U.S. Amid AI Boom South Korean companies are reportedly accelerating investments and acquisitions in U.S. firms, fueled by a boom in artificial intelligence (AI).The Financial Times (FT) reported on July 24 that South Korean companies, bolstered by increased cash reserves from the AI surge, are actively pursuing investments and acquisitions in the U.S. to secure advanced technologies and avoid tariff burdens imposed by the Trump administration.According to data from South Koreas Ministry of Economy and Finance cited by FT, direct investment by South Korean companies in the U.S. reached $10.2 billion in the first quarter of this year, more than double the amount from the same period last year. This marks the largest investment in five years. Last years total direct investment in the U.S. also increased by about 15% to $25.7 billion.Sushil Bhatia, head of M&A for Goldman Sachs in the Asia-Pacific region (excluding Japan), stated, AI is fundamentally changing the way M&A transactions are conducted globally. If the U.S. is the center of innovation, then South Korea is at the heart of that in Asia. He added, South Korea is well-positioned to invest in suitable companies across the supply chain, backed by abundant capital.This investment surge is led by Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, which are considered the biggest beneficiaries of AI infrastructure development. The stock prices of both companies have more than tripled over the past year, and their combined operating profit is expected to reach a record $400 billion this year.Last month, Samsung participated in a $100 million investment in AI data center cooling technology firm Jutacore. In the previous year, it also invested $750 million in AI semiconductor startup Groq.SK Hynix announced plans in January to invest $10 billion in U.S. innovative companies and collaborate with them. Last year, it participated in a $120 million investment in U.S. startup Abecena, which develops optical connection technology to enhance energy efficiency in AI systems.South Korean companies are also continuing to acquire U.S. tech firms. Samsung agreed to acquire the U.S. healthcare platform Xealth last year, while Doosan Robotics acquired an 89.6% stake in U.S. automation firm ONExia in Pennsylvania in 2025.Investment activities are not limited to semiconductors. Financial industry insiders report that South Korean companies in shipbuilding, robotics, biotech, and advanced manufacturing are also considering acquisitions of local firms to address geopolitical risks and enter the U.S. market.Jang Tae-won, co-head of North Asia M&A at JP Morgan, noted, Just a few years ago, cash-rich Chinese companies were aggressively acquiring Western assets at a premium. However, as U.S.-China relations have changed, Chinese firms are now effectively excluded from acquiring major U.S. assets.He added, Now is the golden era for South Korean companies in U.S. M&A, driven by strong cash flow, the need for supply chain reshoring, and demands for market access, prompting them to pursue larger and transformative deals.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 16:28 -
Lee Jae-yong Meets Sam Altman to Strengthen AI Infrastructure Cooperation, Anticipates 'Ten Years Without a Downturn' for K-Semiconductors Lee Jae-yong, chairman of Samsung Electronics, and Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, met in the U.S. in a significant move symbolizing the restructuring of the global artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductor supply chain. As U.S.-South Korea cooperation on next-generation AI infrastructure becomes more visible, concerns about a peak-out in the domestic semiconductor industry are expected to ease considerably.According to industry sources on July 26, the collaboration between Samsung Electronics and OpenAI is expanding beyond high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and DRAM supply to encompass the entire value chain, including advanced foundry processes. To operate OpenAIs next-generation super-large AI models, high-performance memory and customized semiconductor manufacturing capabilities are essential. Samsungs turnkey solutions, which provide everything from design to production and advanced packaging, are seen as a key focus of these discussions.The meeting between Lee and Altman is part of efforts to quickly eliminate uncertainties in semiconductor supply and secure stability. For OpenAI, which needs to continue enhancing its large language models (LLMs), securing a large volume of semiconductors is a top priority. This is why there are expectations that a long-term supply agreement (LTA) between OpenAI and Samsung Electronics is imminent amid a global memory supply shortage.If a major LTA is confirmed, Samsung will secure a long-term supply source for high-value HBM and lay the groundwork for expanding orders in the foundry and advanced packaging sectors. This could create synergies by increasing the operational rates of the 2nm advanced foundry line in Pyeongtaek and the advanced packaging (AVP) process in Cheonan.There is growing optimism about an unprecedented ten years without a downturn in the domestic semiconductor industry. Following the San Francisco AI Summit, Samsung entered into a five-year long-term supply agreement with Broadcom and is currently negotiating with several big tech companies for advanced memory supply agreements. While initial contract periods typically last around five years, considering new line expansions, process stabilization, and next-generation chip development cycles, the collaboration is expected to last over ten years.SK Hynix is in a similar situation. Companies like NVIDIA, Microsoft, and Google are offering substantial advance payments to secure HBM production lines and are requesting increased volumes. In its first-quarter earnings report, SK Hynix stated, Demand from customers for the next three years has already exceeded our production capacity (CAPA), noting a surge in requests for long-term supply agreements for both sixth-generation HBM (HBM4) and seventh-generation HBM (HBM4E).Experts predict that the expansion of big tech collaborations centered around LTAs led by Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix will significantly alleviate the chronic volatility of the domestic semiconductor industry.Ahn Gi-hyun, executive director of the Korea Semiconductor Industry Association, stated, LTAs that involve large advance payments and volumes greatly enhance the profit predictability for domestic semiconductor companies, adding that this could be a decisive factor in breaking the cycle of chicken game that has led to massive losses during past downturns.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 16:16
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Lee Jae-yong Meets OpenAI CEO Sam Altman at Company Headquarters Lee Jae-yong, the chairman of Samsung Electronics, met with Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, at the companys headquarters in San Francisco, California. The two leaders are tightening their collaboration to build a next-generation AI semiconductor supply chain. According to industry sources on July 26, Lee visited OpenAIs headquarters on July 25 (local time) for a high-level meeting with Altman. This meeting followed the postponement of Altmans planned visit to South Korea in June, prompting Lee to travel to the U.S. for the discussion. The two sides reportedly focused on expanding the supply of high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and advanced DRAM, which are crucial for operating large-scale AI models. There was significant exchange of ideas regarding stable supply measures for semiconductors, including long-term supply agreements (LTA), which had been discussed since Altmans proposed visit to South Korea. They also explored collaboration on manufacturing next-generation AI chips using foundry processes. Samsung Electronics is currently implementing a full-scale introduction of ChatGPT and the AI coding tool Codex across all its employees. There are indications that potential collaboration with OpenAI was also considered during Samsungs AI transformation (AX) process. Since establishing a strategic partnership last October, Samsung Electronics and OpenAI have continued to collaborate on expanding advanced memory supply and building next-generation AI infrastructure. Industry experts anticipate that this meeting in the U.S. will further broaden the scope of technological and supply chain cooperation between the two companies.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 16:08
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Retail Investors Bet 450 Billion Won on Leveraged ETFs Ahead of Regulations As financial authorities prepare to implement regulations on single stock leveraged exchange-traded products (ETPs), individual investors have significantly increased their purchases of these related products. This surge is interpreted as a response to the upcoming increase in the basic deposit requirement.According to the Korea Exchange and Koscom CHECK, individual investors net bought 453.8 billion won worth of 14 single stock leveraged ETFs and ETNs related to Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix on July 24. They purchased 103.8 billion won in Samsung Electronics-related products and 350 billion won in SK Hynix-related products.Excluding the first trading day after the announcement of supplementary measures on July 20, individual investors had recorded three consecutive days of net selling from July 21 to 23. However, on July 24, they shifted back to net buying with a large-scale bargain purchase. Consequently, the cumulative net purchase from July 20 to 24 reached 115.6 billion won.This buying trend is largely attributed to investors seeking to capitalize on sharply reduced prices. On July 24, Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix saw their stock prices drop by 7% to 8%, leading to a 15% to 16% decline in major single stock leveraged products within a day. Most product prices fell from their listing price of 20,000 won to around 11,000 to 12,000 won, effectively halving their value. With the basic deposit requirement set to increase from 10 million won to 30 million won starting July 31, there appears to be a rush to increase holdings before the regulations take effect.Financial authorities view single stock leveraged products as a significant factor contributing to market volatility, particularly surrounding Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, and are moving to tighten regulations. Beginning July 31, the basic deposit for single stock leveraged ETFs and ETNs will rise to 30 million won and will only be recognized in cash. Additionally, measures to strengthen liquidity provider (LP) management responsibilities and expand trading unit sizes will be implemented sequentially.However, despite the impending regulations, market volatility remains high. According to the Korea Exchange, the average daily volatility of the KOSPI from July 1 to 24 was 6.23%, surpassing the previous monthly record set during the global financial crisis in October 2008 (6.11%). Last week, the average daily volatility was 4.98%, down from 6.75% the previous week, but still at a high level. The KOSPI and KOSDAQ markets experienced sidecar interventions four and three times, respectively, last week.Han Ji-young, a researcher at Kiwoom Securities, noted, The measures do not include reductions in leverage ratios or restrictions on the establishment of new products, so the impact may be limited. For the time being, market direction will likely be determined more by semiconductor industry conditions and corporate earnings fundamentals than by leverage-related supply and demand issues.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 15:04
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Love, legacy and the price of a chaebol divorce SEOUL, July 26 (AJP) -There is no shortage of Korean dramas built around chaebol heirs falling in love against the odds. Real life has produced stories just as compelling — except that the endings are often written not by scriptwriters but by judges. Record 944 billion won ($680 million) divorce award involving SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won and former wife Roh Soh-yeong last Friday has added another chapter to the small club of Korea's most consequential corporate breakups, where failed marriages have altered family fortunes, tested succession plans and redefined the legal treatment of billionaire wealth. Unlike television dramas, where romance typically triumphs over wealth and family opposition, Korea's real-life chaebol love stories have often unfolded under relentless public scrutiny, ending in courtroom battles over corporate empires worth trillions of won. The SK saga: A marriage that united business and politics Few unions carried greater symbolic weight than the marriage of Chey Tae-won and Roh Soh-yeong. When they married in 1988, Chey was the son of SK founder Chey Jong-hyun while Roh was the daughter of then-President Roh Tae-woo, creating one of Korea's most influential power couples. Over nearly three decades, Roh stood beside Chey as SK evolved from a domestic energy company into one of the world's most valuable AI memory chipmakers. Their marriage unraveled publicly after Chey disclosed that he had fathered a child outside the marriage and sought divorce in 2017. After years of legal battles culminating in Thursday's remand ruling, the Seoul High Court ordered Chey to pay Roh 944 billion won in cash while recognizing her 33.3 percent contribution to the couple's jointly accumulated wealth over almost 30 years of marriage. The finalized award is the largest publicly disclosed property settlement involving a Korean business family. It follows an earlier appellate ruling in 2024 ordering Chey to pay 1.38 trillion won, which was later overturned by the Supreme Court after it found errors in the lower court's reasoning regarding former President Roh's alleged political slush funds. Samsung's Cinderella romance Long before the SK divorce dominated headlines, another corporate romance had captured the country's imagination. Hotel Shilla President Lee Boo-jin, the eldest daughter of late Samsung Chairman Lee Kun-hee, fell in love with Lim Woo-jae, then a Samsung security employee. Their 1999 marriage was widely portrayed as a rare Cinderella story inside Korea's most powerful conglomerate. The fairy tale ended in 2014 when Lee filed for divorce. During the proceedings, Lim reportedly argued that Lee's personal fortune exceeded 2.5 trillion won and sought more than 1.2 trillion won in property division—the largest publicly known claim in a Korean divorce at the time. The Supreme Court ultimately upheld a property settlement of roughly 14.1 billion won in 2020, a tiny fraction of the amount sought. Legal observers widely interpreted the outcome as reflecting the court's view that Lee's Samsung shareholdings were not subject to division. Lee Jae-yong and Lim Se-ryung: A quiet ending Not every chaebol romance ended in years of courtroom drama. Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong and Daesang Vice Chairwoman Lim Se-ryung divorced in 2009 after 11 years of marriage. The case was settled through mediation within days after proceedings began, and financial terms were never disclosed. Both went on to become prominent business leaders in their own right, with Lee leading Samsung Electronics and Lim emerging as one of Korea's most influential female executives. A retail heir and a television star One of Korea's most talked-about celebrity-business marriages brought together Shinsegae Group Chairman Chung Yong-jin and actress Ko Hyun-jung. The marriage, which attracted enormous public attention, ended in 2003 through mediation only hours after divorce proceedings began. Reports at the time said Chung agreed to pay 1.5 billion won in alimony while retaining custody of the couple's children. The details of any property division, however, were never made public. The gaming founder who paid in shares One of the few founders to divide company ownership rather than cash was NCSoft founder Kim Taek-jin. When his marriage ended in 2004, Kim transferred a 1.76 percent stake in the online game developer to his former spouse. The shares were valued at roughly 30 billion won at the time, making it one of Korea's earliest high-profile examples of equity-based divorce settlements involving a technology entrepreneur. The next blockbuster case Legal and business circles are already watching what could become Korea's next landmark corporate divorce. Smilegate Chief Visionary Officer Kwon Hyuk-bin, whose fortune is estimated at around 8 trillion won, is scheduled to receive a first-instance ruling on Sept. 9 in a divorce case filed in 2022. Local media have reported that his wife is seeking roughly half of his Smilegate shareholding. Following the precedent set in the Chey-Roh litigation, the case is expected to test whether Korean courts are increasingly willing to treat founder-controlled equity in privately held technology companies as marital property. What links these stories is not simply celebrity or wealth. Each has raised difficult questions about how courts value contributions made outside the boardroom, whether family-controlled shareholdings should be divided after decades of marriage, and how personal relationships can reshape the ownership of some of Korea's largest corporations. For a country where chaebol families have long inspired television romances, reality has proved every bit as dramatic—only the scripts are written in court judgments, measured in billions of won, and capable of altering the future of corporate empires. July 26, 2026 14:24 -
U.S. Tech Giants and Korean Semiconductor Leaders Brace for 'AI Earnings Super Week' U.S. tech giants and South Koreas semiconductor leaders are set to announce their second-quarter earnings, marking an AI earnings super week. Following Alphabets recent announcement of better-than-expected results and a reaffirmation of its commitment to expanding AI investments, market attention is now focused on Microsoft, Meta, Apple, Amazon, as well as Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix.According to the financial investment industry on July 26, earnings reports from key companies in the AI ecosystem will be concentrated this week in the U.S. Microsoft and Meta will release their results after the market closes on July 29, followed by ARM, Qualcomm, and Lam Research. On July 30, Apple, Amazon, and Monolithic Power (MPWR) will also report their earnings. Prior to that, semiconductor equipment firms like KLA and NXP Semiconductors will announce their results on July 28.In South Korea, SK Hynix will report its earnings on July 29, followed by Samsung Electronics, LG Energy Solution, LG Electronics, Samsung SDI, SK Innovation, and POSCO Holdings on July 30. Notably, Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix are considered key players in the AI memory market, making their results critical indicators for both the domestic stock market and the global semiconductor industry.Expectations for this earnings season are high. Samsung Electronics has already indicated a potential earnings surprise with preliminary results showing second-quarter sales of 171 trillion won and operating profit of 89.4 trillion won, exceeding market consensus. The operating profit marks an 1810% increase compared to the same period last year, setting a new record. SK Hynix is also expected to report its highest-ever earnings, with estimates suggesting second-quarter sales of 84.6 trillion won and operating profit of 64.1 trillion won, surpassing last years annual operating profit in just one quarter.Market participants are paying closer attention to the managements outlook for the second half of the year rather than just the earnings figures. Following Alphabets earnings surprise, which included a raised capital expenditure forecast by $15 billion and a reaffirmation of its AI investment strategy, data from Hana Financial Investment shows that the average stock price returns for Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix have reached 11% and 17%, respectively, in the month following the announcement.Seo Sang-young, a researcher at Mirae Asset Securities, stated, This earnings season will serve as a process to confirm whether the investment cycle across the AI supply chain, including memory, semiconductor equipment, and power semiconductors, remains valid, starting with big tech. The key will be whether the expansion of AI investments translates into actual improvements in sales, profits, and free cash flow (FCF), as well as how future investment plans and guidance are presented.However, there is a possibility of increased volatility following the earnings announcements. Seo noted, After the earnings reports, the delta hedging by options market participants and the portfolio adjustments by institutions and foreign investors may lead to differentiation by sector and increased volatility in individual stocks. Particularly, stocks reporting earnings tend to experience higher implied volatility (IV) ahead of their announcements, so it is essential to monitor not only the results but also the guidance and conference call content. July 26, 2026 13:48
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Is It Cheaper to Keep Your Air Conditioner Running All Day? As the heat wave continues, concerns about rising electricity bills due to increased air conditioner usage are growing. Online discussions frequently suggest that keeping the air conditioner on all day is cheaper than turning it off and on.In short, this statement is only partially true. The power consumption of an air conditioner depends on whether it is an inverter type or a fixed-speed model, as well as how long the home is unoccupied.Most recently released home air conditioners are inverter types. Inverter models use a significant amount of power initially to quickly lower the indoor temperature. Once the desired temperature is reached, they reduce the compressor speed to operate only as needed.The issue arises when the air conditioner is turned off after the indoor space has cooled, only to be turned back on shortly after. If the power is off for a while and the indoor temperature rises, the air conditioner must restart at full capacity. Repeating this cycle can lead to higher power consumption compared to maintaining a steady temperature.Researchers from Samsung Electronics presented findings at a conference of the Korean Society of Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineers, indicating that for short outings of less than 90 minutes, it may be more energy-efficient to keep the inverter air conditioner running. Their experiments showed that after a 30-minute absence, power consumption was 5% higher when the unit was turned off and then restarted, and 2% higher after 60 minutes. However, after 90 minutes, it became more efficient to turn the unit off. Samsung noted that results may vary based on the home environment and insulation.Thus, for inverter models, it may be beneficial to leave the unit on during short absences of 30 minutes to an hour. For longer absences of over two hours, it is generally better to turn it off.The 90-minute guideline is not a one-size-fits-all rule. Factors such as home size, insulation quality, window orientation, outside temperature, air conditioner capacity, and set temperature can all affect outcomes. Homes with strong sunlight or poor insulation will see indoor temperatures rise quickly after turning off the unit. Conversely, well-insulated homes can maintain cool air for a longer period.Older fixed-speed air conditioners operate differently. They run at a constant output until the desired temperature is reached, then stop until the temperature rises again. Since they cannot adjust output finely like inverter models, keeping them on continuously may not be advantageous. Turning off a fixed-speed unit when the indoor space is sufficiently cool and restarting it when it gets warmer can help reduce power consumption.To determine whether an air conditioner is inverter type, check the product or the label on the outdoor unit. If it is labeled inverter or shows cooling capacity and power consumption in multiple stages (minimum, medium, rated), it is likely an inverter model. The most accurate way to confirm is to check the model number or user manual or contact the manufacturers customer service.When first turning on the air conditioner, it is more efficient to use the high-speed or quick-cooling function to lower the indoor temperature rather than running it at a low setting for a long time. After reaching the desired temperature, it is advisable to set it around 26 to 28 degrees Fahrenheit and lower the fan speed to maintain that temperature.Using a fan or circulator can help distribute cool air quickly throughout the room. The Korea Energy Agency recommends using air conditioners in conjunction with fans and keeping windows and doors closed during cooling to minimize the influx of hot air. When leaving during the day, closing curtains or blinds to block sunlight can also be beneficial.Avoid setting the temperature too low. Setting the indoor temperature to 18 or 20 degrees does not make the air conditioner blow colder air. Instead, it may cause the outdoor unit to run at high capacity for longer, increasing power consumption.Filter maintenance is also crucial. Clogged filters can obstruct airflow and reduce cooling efficiency. During the summer months when air conditioner usage is high, it is advisable to check and clean the filters every two weeks.Electricity bills are not determined solely by the usage of one air conditioner. If the total power consumption in a household exceeds the progressive rate threshold, the cost of additional electricity usage can increase significantly. Korea Electric Power Corporation applies a progressive rate system, where the unit price rises as usage increases.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 13:28
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Korea's big chip week begins as SK hynix, Samsung face AI boom reality check SEOUL, July 26 (AJP) - South Korea's technology sector enters its most closely watched week of the earnings season as memory giant SK hynix reports second-quarter results on Wednesday, followed by Samsung Electronics' full earnings on Thursday, with investors looking beyond record profits for clues on whether the AI-driven semiconductor boom still has room to run. The two companies now sit at the center of the global AI infrastructure cycle, and their earnings conference calls are expected to shape investor sentiment toward semiconductor stocks worldwide as markets debate whether the industry's extraordinary profitability has further upside or is approaching its peak. Consensus forecasts compiled from 14 domestic brokerages project SK hynix will post record quarterly revenue of 84.1 trillion won ($60.7 billion) and operating profit of 64.1 trillion won, extending the unprecedented earnings surge driven by high-bandwidth memory (HBM), AI DRAM and enterprise solid-state drives. If realized, SK hynix's quarterly operating profit alone would exceed the company's entire 2025 annual operating profit of 47.2 trillion won by nearly 17 trillion won. Combined with first-quarter operating profit of 37.6 trillion won, the chipmaker would surpass 100 trillion won in operating profit during the first half of this year. Samsung Electronics, which earlier this month reported preliminary second-quarter operating profit of 89.4 trillion won on revenue of 171 trillion won, is expected to disclose detailed divisional results on July 30. Investors will focus on the performance of its Device Solutions semiconductor division and management's outlook for AI memory demand. Should SK hynix meet market expectations, the combined second-quarter operating profit of the two Korean chipmakers would exceed 150 trillion won, underscoring the industry's dominant role in powering the AI investment cycle. Analysts attribute the record earnings to the extension of the memory supercycle that began in the second half of last year. HBM shipments continued to expand during the April-June period while conventional DRAM prices remained firm. Strong capital spending by North American cloud service providers on AI data centers also lifted demand for enterprise SSDs, supporting a recovery in NAND flash prices. "The expansion of HBM production will continue to limit supply of conventional memory products," said Kim Dong-won, head of research at KB Securities. "Long-term supply agreements are increasing, and sales to global big tech companies and AI data centers are expected to account for around 70 percent of revenue." The earnings boom has also pushed profitability to levels rarely seen in manufacturing. Brokerages estimate SK hynix's second-quarter operating margin at 75 to 77 percent, up from 72 percent in the previous quarter, meaning the company would generate more than 7,500 won in operating profit for every 10,000 won of products sold. If achieved, SK hynix would outperform Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. in operating margin for a third consecutive quarter. TSMC, widely regarded as one of the semiconductor industry's most profitable companies, reported a 60.3 percent operating margin for the second quarter. SK hynix first surpassed TSMC in profitability in the fourth quarter of last year, posting a 58 percent operating margin compared with TSMC's 54 percent. The gap is expected to widen to as much as 15 to 17 percentage points this quarter. The company's balance sheet has strengthened alongside its earnings. SK hynix returned to a net cash position in the third quarter of last year for the first time since 2019 and expanded net cash holdings to 35 trillion won at the end of the first quarter. Analysts expect cash reserves to increase further after another quarter of record earnings. Despite the blockbuster numbers, investors are expected to focus less on the reported results than on management's outlook for the second half. Key questions include whether HBM supply can keep pace with surging AI demand, whether pricing power in conventional memory can be sustained, how quickly major cloud providers will expand AI infrastructure spending, and whether the current AI investment cycle is entering a more mature phase. With semiconductor stocks accounting for a substantial share of South Korea's benchmark indexes, the guidance from SK hynix and Samsung Electronics next week will likely to influence not only domestic equities but also broader sentiment across global AI-related technology stocks. July 26, 2026 13:21 -
South Korea and U.S. Tech Giants Form $1.4 Trillion AI Alliance The announcement of a $1.4 trillion semiconductor and AI alliance between South Korean and U.S. tech giants is a welcome development for South Koreas struggling economy. Major South Korean companies, including Samsung Electronics, SK, Hyundai Motor Group, and Naver, have secured significant investments by partnering with global tech leaders like NVIDIA, Broadcom, and Anthropic. This achievement is attributed to a combination of advanced technology, fierce survival efforts from the private sector, and government support. As the global tech power struggle intensifies, South Korea has demonstrated its role as a key player in the global AI supply chain, moving beyond being merely a semiconductor supplier. Notably, the government and President Lee Jae-myung have pledged to act as a strong administrative accelerator to support this massive opportunity created by the private sector. President Lee emphasized that he would ensure the swift processing of administrative procedures and national support in line with the companies large-scale collaboration plans. When global tech leaders requested expedited approvals and rapid policy implementation, the President responded, When it comes to administration, speed is always my top priority. This statement is crucial, as the greatest fear for global tech companies is not the absence of technology but delays in time. The commitment from the highest levels of government to prioritize administrative speed has alleviated uncertainties for businesses. The key now is execution. To ensure that the long-term cooperation and investment promises, amounting to 1.4 trillion won, do not remain mere flashy events, a public-private one team system must be operational. The government must immediately implement comprehensive support measures, including a fast-track for AI data center approvals, securing a stable power grid, and easing regulations to build a physical AI reference platform. Companies must also make bold technology investments and expand the domestic ecosystem to ensure these achievements benefit small and startup businesses across the industry. The success of the tech power era cannot be determined by companies or the government alone. The combination of businesses creating opportunities and the government backing them with innovative administration and policies is the ultimate weapon to dominate the global market. Additionally, addressing the chronic issues in the labor market remains a challenge. While focusing solely on growth is problematic, it is equally important not to neglect future investment potential by concentrating only on distribution. The public-private collaboration model showcased at the recent South Korea-U.S. AI summit could mark a turning point for the South Korean economy, transforming it from a fast follower to a first mover. It is hoped that this case, combining corporate ambition with government support, will establish a new standard for South Koreas growth. July 26, 2026 12:52
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LG InstaView Refrigerator Surpasses 5 Million Units Sold in 10 Years LG Electronics premium refrigerator, the LG InstaView, has surpassed global sales of 5 million units, achieving this milestone ten years after its initial launch. According to LG Electronics, as of last month, approximately 5.3 million InstaView refrigerators have been sold since their debut in 2016, averaging about one unit sold every minute over the past decade. Regionally, North America accounts for about 30% of total sales, making it the largest market. This trend reflects a preference for large-capacity refrigerators and a lifestyle centered around home parties. Europe follows closely with nearly 20% of sales, driven by a focus on energy efficiency and food storage performance. Recently, demand has also been increasing in emerging markets such as Asia and Latin America. The LG InstaView features a special coated glass door that lights up with a double knock, allowing users to check the contents without opening the door. The glass appears as a mirror under normal conditions but turns transparent when tapped, reducing cold air loss and enhancing insulation while maintaining a sleek design. International media outlets, including Trusted Reviews in the UK and Les Numériques in France, have praised the refrigerator for its convenience and energy efficiency. Over the past decade, the InstaView has won numerous accolades, including awards from the three major design competitions (Red Dot, IDEA, iF) and the CES Innovation Award, demonstrating its technological and design prowess. Kim Jae-il, head of LG Electronics Kitchen Solutions Division, stated, The knock feature of the LG InstaView refrigerator has transformed how people use refrigerators. We will continue to enhance customer convenience and enjoyment in their food experiences through AI and innovative cooling and storage technologies.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 10:36
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Samsung Revamps AI Subscription Club with Up to 50% Device Buyback Guarantee Samsung Electronics is launching a revamped New Galaxy AI Subscription Club ahead of the pre-sale of its latest Galaxy Z Fold/Flip 8 series, significantly enhancing purchase and usage benefits.According to Samsung Electronics, the New Galaxy AI Subscription Club guarantees up to 50% of the devices residual value upon return after the subscription period ends, along with various benefits such as discounts on Samsung Care Plus and accessory packages.Notably, the subscription club has expanded the options for subscription periods. In addition to the existing one-year and two-year plans, a new three-year option has been introduced.Subscribers to the three-year plan will receive coverage for damage, as well as the Samsung Care Plus Loss/Damage product, which provides compensation once every 12 months. Free repairs, battery replacements, and on-site repair services are also included. The one- and two-year plans will focus on damage coverage.For customers who purchase a self-supplied model and return the device, the guaranteed residual values are as follows: 50% for the one-year plan, 40% for the two-year plan (50% for the Flip 8), and 25% for the three-year plan.Tailored benefits targeting the Gen Z demographic have also been introduced. Customers who purchase the Galaxy Z Flip 8 through a self-supplied model and subscribe to the two-year plan will receive the Flip Youth Subscription benefit, guaranteeing up to 50% residual value upon return after two years. Additionally, a one-month premium plus subscription to the language learning app Speak will be provided.To address security concerns in daily life, financial crime compensation benefits will be offered to all subscribers (customers who register their IMEI). In cases of cyber financial crime such as phishing and smishing, customers can receive compensation of up to 3 million won, and up to 500,000 won for internet transaction and shopping fraud.Monthly subscription fees will vary based on the model and duration. For the Fold 8 Ultra and Fold 8, the fees are 9,900 won per month for the one- and two-year plans and 14,500 won per month for the three-year plan. For the Flip 8, the fees are 8,900 won per month for the one- and two-year plans and 11,500 won per month for the three-year plan.Jung Ho-jin, Vice President of Samsung Electronics Korea, stated, The New Galaxy AI Subscription Club has been revamped to comprehensively reflect the secure usage needs of foldable phone users, financial security, and the preferences of the Gen Z demographic. We will continue to expand differentiated subscription services tailored to customer lifestyles.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 10:28
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Samsung to Launch AI Glasses Focused on Comfort and Design Samsung Electronics is set to launch artificial intelligence (AI) glasses that prioritize comfort and design. The company aims to create glasses that can be worn all day without discomfort, focusing on minimizing weight and improving balance, heat dissipation, and overall wearability.Choi Jae-in, Vice President and Head of the XR Development Team at Samsungs MX Division, stated during a briefing on July 23 in London that many companies can create AI glasses, but making a product that people want to wear every day is a completely different challenge. He emphasized that the primary goal was to create glasses that are appealing at first glance and comfortable for all-day wear.The development of the Intelligent Eyewear, a collaboration between Samsung and Google, aims to differentiate itself from existing AI glasses. Rather than prioritizing technical performance, the focus is on design and user experience. Choi noted, Glasses are a fashion item and a means of personal expression. True AI glasses should not replace smartphones but rather provide a new interface that helps users understand the world and naturally extends mobile AI experiences beyond the screen.Samsung has leveraged its expertise in ultra-compact design from its mobile business. The glasses feature a slim hinge structure, ultra-thin injection technology, and lightweight materials such as titanium and aluminum. The internal components have been reconfigured to balance weight, minimizing any tendency to tilt when worn. Additionally, a new heat dissipation structure has been designed to prevent heat from the device from reaching the users face.Choi expressed confidence that engineers have worked tirelessly to reduce weight to within 0.1 grams, asserting that these will be the lightest AI glasses available. While the actual weight has not been disclosed, he repeatedly emphasized that they are lighter than competing products from companies like Meta.Quality assurance standards exceed those of existing smartphones. Samsung has conducted tests for high temperature and humidity, human safety, durability specific to eyewear, and even repeated applications of sunscreen. This is due to the need for the glasses to maintain performance in everyday conditions, including exposure to sunscreen, sweat, and UV rays. The glasses can be used for up to nine hours on a single charge and come with a case that allows for more than seven additional charges.Rather than replacing smartphones, the focus is on expanding the AI experience. The Intelligent Eyewear includes a camera, sensors, microphone, and open speakers, enabling users to check messages, receive real-time translations, get directions, and take photos using only their voice. Notably, it incorporates Googles latest Gemini Live technology, allowing the AI to understand the users surroundings in real time.The core technology is split computing, where heavy AI processing is handled by a Galaxy smartphone while the glasses perform only necessary functions. This structure allows for a thin and lightweight design while maintaining AI performance. Choi explained, High-performance processing is handled by the smartphone, while the glasses serve to expand the experience, adding that the goal is to naturally extend mobile AI experiences beyond the screen rather than replace smartphones. He expressed pride in being the first major mobile brand to introduce glasses, highlighting the technological possibilities they can explore.The integration with the Galaxy ecosystem is also a significant advantage. Users can immediately view recorded videos in the smartphones Now Bar and gallery, and control calls and music using gestures from a Galaxy Watch. Existing mobile apps like Samsung Notes, translation services, and Google Maps can be used seamlessly without additional setup. Basic compatibility with both Android and iOS ensures broad usability.Samsung has also focused on privacy protection, a key concern for the adoption of AI glasses. An LED indicator lights up during recording, and the camera is designed to operate only when worn on the face. There is also a feature that disables recording if the LED is covered or taped over. User voice data and video will not be used for AI model training.Samsung views this product as the starting point for the AI glasses market. Choi stated, Rather than incorporating all technologies at once, we will gradually expand necessary features based on consumer feedback, adding, Just as Samsung set new standards for form factors, we will create new benchmarks in the AI glasses market.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 10:16
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HD Hyundai Samho Secures Port Crane Order in Tacoma, USA HD Hyundai Samho is advancing the Korea-U.S. shipbuilding cooperation project, known as MASGA, through its port crane business in the United States.On July 26, HD Hyundai announced that it has signed a contract to supply four port cranes to Washington United Terminals (WUT).This supply contract is part of a terminal modernization project aimed at replacing aging cranes at WUT, a U.S. subsidiary of South Koreas largest shipping company, HMM, and expanding the capacity for large container ships.Currently, WUT operates a total of eight dock cranes at Tacoma Port in Washington state. Dock cranes are responsible for loading and unloading containers from ships at the port. Among these, four cranes were supplied by HD Hyundai Samho in 1999, and this project will replace two of those aging dock cranes with new equipment.Additionally, the project includes the installation of two new yard cranes to load and unload containers onto vehicles within the terminal. Both companies expect this initiative to enhance port handling competitiveness, increase capacity for large vessels, and improve operational stability.To achieve this, HD Hyundai Samho will undertake the entire process of designing, manufacturing, transporting, installing, and commissioning the two dock cranes and two yard cranes on a turnkey basis, with all equipment scheduled for delivery by 2028.Notably, these cranes will utilize high-quality steel produced by POSCO. The project is expected to consolidate the technological capabilities of key domestic industries, including shipbuilding, ports, and steel, thereby contributing to the strengthening of South Koreas core industrial capabilities.An official from HD Hyundai Samho stated, The order for port cranes at Tacoma Port is a significant achievement that recognizes our technological expertise and quality competitiveness accumulated through various domestic and international projects. We will support the MASGA project successfully through the development of eco-friendly and efficient port equipment.Meanwhile, on July 14, HD Hyundai Samho announced a partnership with KT and Samsung Electronics to establish a self-operating network that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze and address communication network failures.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 10:00
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Korea's Chimaek diplomacy gets a Silicon Valley AI makeover SEOUL, July 26 (AJP) - South Korea's signature chimaek culture — fried chicken and beer — found a Silicon Valley twist on Friday as President Lee Jae Myung clinked Budweiser bottles over burgers and fish and chips with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong, SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung Euisun and other AI leaders on San Francisco's waterfront. The informal dinner at a marina restaurant, following a day of high-level meetings and an AI summit, was designed to mirror the relaxed "chimaek diplomacy" Huang enjoyed during his visit to Seoul last year, when the Nvidia chief famously bonded with Korean business leaders over fried chicken and barbecue. This time, California seafood and beer replaced Korean fare, but the objective remained the same: forging personal ties behind one of the world's fastest-growing AI partnerships. Earlier in the day, Lee held separate meetings with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Broadcom CEO Hock Tan and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, urging each company to deepen participation in South Korea's AI ambitions. Lee introduced his administration's three mega AI projects and said South Korea was transforming itself into an AI-native economy spanning industry and society. Huang praised Seoul's vision, saying South Korea's ambition to become an "AI-native nation" was inspiring and that the country possessed the talent and industrial foundation to build sovereign AI if it secured sufficient access to graphics processing units. He also highlighted Nvidia's expanding cooperation with Samsung Electronics, SK hynix, Naver, Hyundai Motor and a planned joint AI research institute with KAIST. Altman described South Korea as one of OpenAI's most important partners and praised Lee's AI leadership. He said equity-based wealth-sharing models could prove more effective than simple cash transfers in the AI era and called Korea's investments in physical AI, energy infrastructure and its three mega projects globally exemplary. OpenAI also expressed interest in using South Korea as a test bed for its next-generation AI devices scheduled for release early next year. Meeting Hock Tan, Lee emphasized that governments and companies must jointly build AI ecosystems rather than compete independently. Tan praised South Korea's AI strategy and highlighted Broadcom's partnerships with Samsung Electronics, SK hynix and Korean AI startup FuriosaAI, predicting AI infrastructure demand would continue expanding through at least 2029. Amodei said Anthropic would expand cooperation with South Korea in data centers, AI security and cybersecurity after signing a memorandum of understanding with Seoul's science ministry. The meetings culminated in the San Francisco AI Summit, where Lee unveiled the San Francisco AI Declaration, pledging to make South Korea an "irreplaceable" pillar of the global AI supply chain by leveraging its leadership in memory semiconductors, advanced manufacturing and AI infrastructure. The summit also produced a series of commercial commitments between Korean conglomerates and global technology companies. According to the presidential office, SK Group agreed to pursue long-term AI infrastructure cooperation with global technology firms, Samsung Electronics expanded strategic cooperation with Broadcom, while Naver announced plans to develop global AI factories with Nvidia and Brookfield. Together with planned investments in AI data centers and computing infrastructure, the announced projects represent commitments valued at roughly $950 billion. Ending the day around a waterfront dinner table rather than a conference stage, Lee sought to reinforce a broader message that South Korea intends to pair its manufacturing strengths with America's AI software leadership — not only through investment pledges and semiconductor deals, but also through the personal relationships increasingly shaping the global AI race. After concluding his AI-focused visit to San Francisco, Lee headed to South America, where he pledged to deepen cooperation on critical minerals and revive trade talks with the Mercosur bloc. July 26, 2026 07:01 -
Samsung Electronics Partners with Broadcom for $200 Billion AI Memory and Foundry Collaboration Samsung Electronics signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) with global AI semiconductor company Broadcom on July 24 during the AI Summit held in San Francisco, aimed at building next-generation AI infrastructure.The AI Summit was attended by Han Jin-man, president of Samsungs Foundry Business, and Hock Tan, CEO of Broadcom, along with executives from both companies and government officials.Samsung plans to expand its collaboration with Broadcom based on its unique one-stop turnkey solution that encompasses memory, foundry, and advanced packaging, aiming to provide differentiated customer value in the next-generation AI semiconductor market.Under this agreement, the two companies will pursue strategic cooperation worth over $200 billion in the memory and foundry sectors over the next five years, further enhancing their technological collaboration in AI semiconductors.Broadcom Strengthens AI Accelerator Competitiveness with Advanced HBM SolutionsAs major global tech companies rapidly adopt custom AI accelerators (ASICs), this partnership is significant as it combines Broadcoms leadership in custom semiconductor design with Samsungs expertise in memory, manufacturing, and packaging technologies to enhance next-generation AI semiconductor competitiveness.Samsung will supply advanced memory solutions, including High Bandwidth Memory (HBM), leveraging its world-class memory technology to enhance the performance and competitiveness of Broadcoms AI accelerators.Following the industry-first mass production of HBM4, which applies 1c DRAM and 4nm base die technology in February, Samsung also supplied HBM4E samples to customers in May, continuing its leadership in next-generation HBM technology.Samsungs HBM is expected to serve as a core memory solution that maximizes the performance of Broadcoms AI accelerators, supporting the competitiveness of next-generation AI infrastructure.Enhancing Broadcoms AI Chip Competitiveness with 2-Nanometer Foundry and Advanced PackagingIn the foundry sector, Samsung will apply advanced foundry processes below 2 nanometers to Broadcoms next-generation communication semiconductor solutions, enhancing product competitiveness.Additionally, Samsung will support the implementation of high-performance, high-efficiency AI semiconductors through advanced packaging technology based on 2-nanometer processes, providing Broadcom with differentiated AI semiconductor solutions.Samsung will also closely integrate the entire process from chip design to advanced packaging and mass production, optimizing semiconductor design and processes to shorten product development timelines while maximizing performance and power efficiency.With this technological competitiveness, Samsung plans to continue expanding its collaboration with Broadcom in the next-generation AI semiconductor field and actively explore new business opportunities in the rapidly growing AI and high-performance computing markets.Vice Chairman Jeon Young-hyun: Integrated Semiconductor Solutions are Key Competitiveness in the AI EraThis agreement is seen as a strategic partnership that strengthens cooperation between the two companies across key semiconductor technologies—memory, foundry, and advanced packaging—aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the next-generation AI semiconductor ecosystem.Jeon Young-hyun, vice chairman of Samsungs Device Solutions division, stated, In the AI era, semiconductor solutions that integrate memory, logic, and advanced packaging are crucial. By expanding our collaboration with Broadcom, we will accelerate the development of future AI infrastructure and provide greater value to our customers.Charlie Kawas, president of Broadcoms Semiconductor Solutions Group, remarked, As AI infrastructure rapidly expands, close collaboration across the semiconductor ecosystem is becoming increasingly important. Through our partnership with Samsung, we aim to create next-generation solutions optimized for the diverse demands of the market.Through this agreement, Samsung aims to elevate its leadership in next-generation semiconductor technology and manufacturing capabilities, driving innovation in the global AI semiconductor ecosystem.* This article has been translated by AI. July 25, 2026 15:48