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Court Rules on Kwon Hyuk-bin's Divorce Settlement, Valuing Assets at 2.5 Trillion Won In a divorce ruling, a court ordered Kwon Hyuk-bin, Chief Vision Officer (CVO) of Smilegate, to pay his spouse 35% of Smilegate-related stock and 650 million won in cash as part of the asset division. The court dismissed the spouses claim for alimony, determining that Kwon CVO was not responsible for the breakdown of the marriage.The Seoul Family Courts Division 3 ruled on September 9 that Kwon CVOs spouse, identified as Lee, would receive 35% of the stock related to Smilegate as part of the divorce and asset division. The remaining cash amount of 650 million won was ordered to be paid to cover the shortfall based on the asset division ratio.This ruling comes nearly three years and ten months after the case was filed in November 2022.The court assessed Kwon CVOs net worth at approximately 7.3375 trillion won, with the value of Smilegate-related stock accounting for about 7.3149 trillion won, or 99.8% of his total assets.If the stock were to be converted to cash for the asset division, Kwon CVO would need to provide around 2.55 trillion won. However, the court decided to divide 35% of the Smilegate stock in kind instead of cash, noting that Kwon CVO holds 100% of the companys shares, thus posing no risk of losing control over the company.Even if the ruling is upheld, there will be no change in Smilegates governance structure. Kwon CVO will retain 65% ownership after the stock division, alleviating concerns that he would need to sell shares to pay the substantial cash settlement.A key issue in the divorce proceedings was whether Kwon CVOs shares in Smilegate could be considered marital property. The court concluded that Kwon CVOs individual business acumen and management decisions were crucial to the companys growth, leading to a division ratio of 65% for Kwon CVO and 35% for Lee.The court acknowledged Lees indirect contributions, citing her previous ownership of shares in Smilegates predecessor, Smilegate Entertainment, and her long-term commitment to household and childcare responsibilities as factors in including Smilegate shares in the asset division.Consideration was also given to the financial support Lees family provided early in the marriage and the substantial dividends Kwon CVO received from Smilegate after the lawsuit was filed when determining the 35% contribution ratio.The valuation of Smilegates stock utilized the discounted cash flow (DCF) method. The court noted that intangible assets play a significant role in evaluating the value of gaming companies and that future growth potential must also be considered. The valuation also reflected the merger of Smilegate with four subsidiaries prior to the valuation date.The court rejected Lees claim for alimony, determining that Kwon CVO bore no responsibility for the marriages collapse. It assessed that both parties shared responsibility for the prolonged conflict and its escalation, with the degree of fault being equal.Lee was designated as the custodian and guardian of their minor children. Kwon CVO is required to pay 20 million won per month in child support until the children reach adulthood and is allowed to maintain visitation rights in accordance with the childrens wishes.Following the ruling, Kwon CVOs attorney expressed some disappointment regarding the courts assessment of the marriages breakdown but noted that the dismissal of the alimony claim indicates the court found no fault on Kwon CVOs part. The attorney stated that they would review the detailed ruling and consult with Kwon CVO regarding future legal steps.Smilegate stated, The company has no position on the personal matters of its major shareholder and will continue to carry out its business as usual. September 9, 2026 1 -
Good Fighters 2026 to be Held in Incheon This October with Korea-China Exchange Programs Good Fighters Entertainment will host GOOD FIGHTERS 2026 at the Incheon Sang Sang Platform on October 4-5.On September 9, Good Fighters announced that they are preparing a program centered on Korea-China international exchange, combining sports, performances, broadcasting, cultural content, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.GOOD FIGHTERS 2026 is designed as a multifaceted cultural event involving domestic and international athletes, officials, and citizens. It will feature martial sports competitions alongside various content such as performances and tourism.On the first day, October 4, international matches featuring athletes from Korea and China will take place, along with youth exchange competitions and performances.Good Fighters previously signed a strategic partnership agreement with the Enbo Fight Club in China to foster human exchanges, youth development, and collaboration on international events and cultural content. The Incheon event marks the first joint project between the two organizations.Key programs will be broadcast live on OBS Gyeongin TV. Good Fighters plans to produce broadcasts and online content from the matches, performances, and international exchange activities.On the second day, October 5, the ALLFC Global MMA Championship and youth competitions will be held.In addition to sports events, there will be performances by singers and other live programs. CSR activities in collaboration with the Green Umbrella will also take place.The Incheon Sang Sang Platform is located near major tourist and cultural areas such as Wolmido, Chinatown, and the Open Port Area. Good Fighters aims to promote both the event and Incheons tourism and cultural resources in partnership with relevant organizations and local partners.Yuk Jin-soo, chairman of Good Fighters, stated, GOOD FIGHTERS 2026 is not just about the matches, but a space for different countries and generations to meet and exchange. We will prepare an event that leverages Incheons international character and cultural uniqueness to engage both domestic and international participants and citizens.Kim Tae-jin, CEO of Good Fighters Entertainment, added, The direction of this event is to connect international exchange, sports, performances, broadcasting, tourism, and CSR into a single content. We plan to finalize the detailed preparations in the remaining time.Good Fighters Entertainment announced that they will sequentially reveal the main matchups, participating athletes, performances, and on-site programs leading up to the event.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Chuseok Box Office Showdown: Min-sik Choi, Hae-jin Yoo, and Yo-han Byun Face Off As foreign films like Odyssey, which surpassed 10 million viewers, and the long-running Spider-Man: Brand New Day dominate the box office, three major Korean films are set to compete this Chuseok holiday. These films, ranging from a family-friendly K-office human drama to a heavy historical mystery thriller and the final chapter of a 20-year crime franchise, are poised to create a fierce three-way battle.The first film to hit theaters on September 16 is Intern. This movie is a perfect reinterpretation of a Hollywood classic through a Korean lens. It tells the story of Sun-woo (played by Han So-hee), a workaholic CEO who hires Gi-ho (played by Min-sik Choi), a silver intern with 37 years of experience, leading to a generational clash in the office.The fresh pairing of legendary actor Min-sik Choi and MZ icon Han So-hee is a highlight. Despite their contrasting personalities, they share experiences that create a delightful synergy. The cast also includes strong performances from Kim Jun-han, Ryu Hye-young, and Kim Geum-soon, who portray relatable K-office workers. Director Kim Do-young, known for his ability to resonate with audiences in films like Kim Ji-young: Born 1982 and If We, maintains the originals warm healing message while cleverly incorporating Korean workplace culture and the language of the MZ generation. The film is expected to be a heartwarming holiday movie suitable for the whole family.Following that, on September 23, a heavy historical drama and a flashy entertainment film will be released simultaneously. The film Assassins is a high-density mystery thriller that investigates the shocking assassination attempt on the First Lady on August 15, 1974, and the suspicions surrounding it.Starring top Korean actor Hae-jin Yoo, along with Park Hae-il and Lee Min-ho, the film promises an overwhelming ensemble performance. They portray characters in different roles—Cheol-gu, a detective in charge of on-site security; Jae-hwan, the head of the social department at a newspaper; and Young-il, a rookie reporter—each pursuing the truth of the incident from their unique perspectives. The cast is further strengthened by the addition of Bae Sung-woo, Uhm Ji-won, Park Ji-hwan, and special appearances by Oh Jung-se and Jung Woo-sung, creating a solid lineup.The production team is equally impressive. Highb Media Corp, known for Seouls Spring, collaborates with director Heo Jin-ho, along with top-notch staff like cinematographer Imo-gae and art director Kim Byeong-han. They have meticulously recreated the atmosphere of the 1970s by using actual locations from that era and ensuring accurate props, even checking the number of digits in phone numbers. The film has been officially invited to the Gala section of the 51st Toronto International Film Festival, recognizing its artistic merit.Also releasing on the same day (September 23) is the highly anticipated Tazza series, which celebrates its 20th anniversary with a grand finale. Tazza: Song of Belphegor follows friends Jang Tae-young (played by Byun Yo-han) and Park Tae-young (played by Noh Jae-won) as they reunite in the global gambling scene, entangled in an online casino business, leading to a fierce revenge plot.This film, based on the fourth installment Song of Belphegor, which fans consider the best, marks the series first global shoot across Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. The film expands its scale by moving between urban and rural areas in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and has been meticulously designed to maximize realism, with all gambling scenes crafted to be plausible holdem games, following thorough checks by professional poker players. The rivalry between Byun Yo-han and Noh Jae-won is central to the story, complemented by a talented cast including Ayaka Miyoshi, Tsuyoshi Ihara, and trusted actors like Jo Woo-jin and Yoon Kyung-ho. Directed by Choi Kook-hee, known for The Day of the National Bankruptcy, the film delves deeply into the characters desires and natures, marking a spectacular conclusion to a 20-year journey.As three major Korean films prepare to enter the domestic box office, which has been dominated by foreign films, all eyes are on who will claim the top spot this Chuseok holiday.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Suwon Hosts 24th Korea-China-Japan PD Forum to Discuss Future of AI Content The 24th Korea-China-Japan PD Forum is taking place in Suwon, where broadcasting and content industry professionals from the three countries are discussing the future of the content industry.According to the city of Suwon, the forum, themed The Future of East Asian Content in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), began on September 8 at the Suwon Convention Center and will run until September 11 at the convention center and the surrounding Hwaseong Fortress area.During the opening ceremony on September 8, Suwon Mayor Lee Jae-jun stated, While the media environment is rapidly changing alongside AI, the essence of content, which embodies the creators intense contemplation and philosophy, remains unchanged. I hope this forum will be a meaningful time to explore new horizons for East Asian content at this significant turning point of AI.This event is hosted by the city of Suwon and the Suwon Convention Center, with over 200 participants, including PDs, producers, and media professionals from Korea, China, and Japan.On September 8, a forum session was held on the topic of How Good Formats Are Born. On September 9, the main session featured selected documentaries, entertainment, and drama works from each country, along with insights from the directors on their production techniques.Before the main session, Professor Hong Kyung-soo from Ajou University delivered a keynote speech on The Current Status and Challenges of the Content Industry. On September 10, a Global Pitching Session will take place, allowing creators to present their ideas and seek collaboration and co-production opportunities with domestic and international partners.On September 11, participants will tour the Suwon Cultural Tourism sites, including Paldalmun Gate, Hwaseong Haenggung, the Traditional Culture Center, Haenggung-dong, Hwaseomun Gate, and Janganmun Gate, visiting drama filming locations.A city official remarked, We hope this forum will uncover and expand Suwons history and culture into new content, and we will strive to promote the charm of Suwon as a global cultural tourism city both domestically and internationally.Participants include directors from the China TV Artists Association, Shanghai Media Group, Kyoto Broadcasting, and MBS. Notable online video services from China, such as iQIYI and Bilibili, as well as Hai Shi Media and cultural tourism holding companies, are also represented, along with executives from Japans AXon TelePAC and Telecom Staff.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Financial Supervisory Service Raids Journalists Over Insider Trading Allegations The Financial Supervisory Services Capital Market Special Investigation Unit has conducted raids on current and former journalists over allegations of insider trading related to featured stock articles. On September 9, the Financial Supervisory Service and industry sources reported that the special investigation unit searched the homes and workplaces of journalists suspected of insider trading. The investigation is focused on claims that representatives from entertainment agencies involved four journalists to ensure that articles about specific stocks were published, allowing them to profit from stock trading. Authorities are examining whether insider trading occurred during the article writing and publication process. This case is reportedly the last of four insider trading incidents involving journalists that the special investigation unit has been investigating since last year, which have not yet been referred to prosecutors.The raids on journalists associated with the Financial Supervisory Service took place at their homes, workplaces, and the press room of the Financial Supervisory Service. Following procedural requirements that the subjects of the search must be present, investigators from the special investigation unit went directly to the locations where the journalists were staying to conduct the searches.However, on the day of the raid, the targeted journalist was not present in the press room, leading to the placement of a seal for the search. The special investigation unit is expected to gather information on the article writing and reporting processes, as well as the stock trading records of the suspects, to establish a connection between the articles and insider trading.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Residents of Wanju County to Receive 300,000 Won Before Chuseok Wanju County in North Jeolla Province will provide a livelihood support fund of 300,000 won to each resident.On September 9, Wanju County announced that the support fund aims to alleviate the financial burden on residents due to high oil prices, exchange rates, and inflation, while also promoting local consumption to help small businesses and self-employed individuals recover their sales.The eligible recipients include 100,877 registered residents, marriage immigrants, and permanent residents who have been living in Wanju County as of July 31 and continue to reside there until the application date. Those who passed away before the application date, moved out, or have had their residency registration canceled are excluded from eligibility.The application and payment period runs from today until October 30.From September 8 to 11, payments will be made directly at 640 locations, including senior centers in towns and villages. On September 12 and 13, as well as on weekends, payments will be available at the administrative welfare centers and civil service centers in the residents respective towns and villages for those who cannot visit during weekdays.From September 14 to October 30, residents can apply at their local administrative welfare centers and civil service centers on weekdays and receive their funds immediately.Household heads can collect the funds for all household members by bringing their identification. Household members can either receive their funds directly or submit a delegation form along with necessary identification to collect the funds on behalf of the entire household.The support funds will be distributed via prepaid cards, which can be used within Wanju County until December 31 of this year. However, usage will be restricted in certain sectors, including entertainment and gambling.Wanju County Mayor Yoo Hee-tae expressed hope that the support funds will ease the financial burden on residents and invigorate the local economy. He added, We will carefully monitor the voices from the payment sites and ensure that residents can receive their funds without any inconvenience.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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KT Launches AI-Powered 'Genie TV Set-Top Box A2' KT announced the launch of its AI-powered Genie TV Set-Top Box A2 on September 9.The Genie TV Set-Top Box A2 utilizes a large language model (LLM) based AI agent, allowing customers to find desired content through conversation with the AI.While watching content, the AI optimizes the viewing environment. It employs AI Super Resolution (SR) technology to enhance low-resolution content to near 4K UHD quality and provides real-time subtitles for live broadcasts.The device automatically optimizes sound based on content genre. It detects voice bandwidth when watching movies, dramas, or news to ensure clear dialogue delivery.The accuracy of the AI agents voice recognition has also been improved, reducing instances of misinterpreting everyday commands and ensuring it responds only to actual requests.The standard monthly rental fee for the Genie TV Set-Top Box A2 is 7,700 won (including VAT) based on a three-year contract.To ease customer burden, KT offers a care service that includes set-top box rental for 5,500 won per month under a three-year contract. This is 2,200 won cheaper than the standard rental fee, allowing customers to save a total of 79,200 won over three years.Yoon Jin-hyun, head of KTs Media Technology Division, stated, The Genie TV Set-Top Box A2 combines essential features and an AI-based convenient viewing experience in a compact design while reducing user costs.Additionally, KT has introduced a pricing plan called Genie TV All G, which allows customers to enjoy a variety of VOD options, including live channels, terrestrial and cable dramas, entertainment shows, and the latest movies without financial strain.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Naver Proposes 'AI Factory' in France to Target European AI Market Naver is set to leverage France as a foothold to penetrate the European artificial intelligence (AI) market. The company plans to establish an AI Factory that combines Frances stable energy and industrial base with Navers AI infrastructure and service capabilities, aiming to provide resources for European companies and startups while expanding collaboration into industry-specific AI and content sectors.During a business roundtable held on September 8, Naver CEO Choi Soo-yeon and Naver Cloud CEO Kim Yoo-won met with key representatives from major French media, information technology, and energy companies to discuss cooperation in AI infrastructure, industry-specific AI, and content.At the roundtable, Choi emphasized collaboration between the two countries in three key areas: global AI infrastructure, industry-specific AI with data sovereignty and security, and cultural content.In particular, Choi proposed the establishment of an AI Factory targeting the European market based in France. She highlighted Navers recent announcement, in partnership with NVIDIA and Brookfield, to build a global AI factory with over 1GW capacity, stating, We want to create an AI factory that European companies and startups can utilize by combining Frances stable energy base with Navers AI ecosystem experience.In the area of industry-specific AI, Naver plans to expand its domestic experience to Europe. The company has developed the financial-specific AI BOKI in collaboration with the Bank of Korea and established the nuclear power-specific AI Hy-NuRI with Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, integrating industry-specific data and expertise into practical applications.Choi outlined a collaborative direction to support French companies and institutions in building optimized AI while ensuring data sovereignty and security. This strategy aims to secure sovereign AI capabilities tailored to the needs of local companies and institutions amid the European Unions tightening AI and data regulations.Naver also seeks to expand its collaboration in the content sector with France. Choi participated as a speaker at the Lumière Summit, an international film and video conference held in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, where she introduced the $100 million global content fund IP Adaptation Fund established by Naver and Webtoon Entertainment.Additionally, Naver is pursuing collaboration that combines Frances audiovisual cultural heritage with its AI technology. During the presidential visit to France, Naver signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the French National Audiovisual Institute (INA) to utilize AI technology and audiovisual cultural heritage archives.The two parties plan to explore ways to efficiently analyze and organize content by integrating Navers AI technology with INAs extensive audiovisual archives, enabling users to easily search and utilize the materials they need.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 0
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LS Securities Lowers SM Entertainment's Target Price Amid Expected Earnings Slowdown LS Securities has downgraded its target price for SM Entertainment from 120,000 won to 110,000 won, citing limited profit contributions from emerging groups like Rise and Hearts to the companys second-half earnings.In a report released on September 9, analyst Park Seong-ho stated, We expect a slowdown in revenue and profit growth due to a decrease in major artists comebacks and a high base effect compared to last year.He added, Aespa is set to conduct an arena tour focused on Western markets, which is likely to increase performance costs. Additionally, emerging groups like Rise and Hearts will primarily focus on overseas promotions in the second half, limiting their short-term profit contributions.Despite the lowered target price, LS Securities maintained a buy rating. Earlier this year, SM Entertainment unveiled its SM NEXT 3.0 plan, outlining its growth strategy for this year and the long term. The company is currently seeing some results centered around lower-tier intellectual properties and global business as of the second half of 2026.The global business is also gradually expanding. Aespa is expected to conduct a larger tour in North America and Europe compared to last year, with 26 performances scheduled across 25 cities by February 2027.The company is also actively incorporating artificial intelligence (AI). While the results have not been as significant as anticipated, it became the first major domestic agency to debut an AI artist named Naivis.Park emphasized, After a brief pause in second-half performance, we expect a return to a growth cycle next year, driven by the expansion of activities from major groups. The increased global revenue contributions from lower-tier groups and the active engagement of higher-tier and legacy intellectual properties are expected to be the two main pillars of growth.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 0
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Judge Ji Gwi-yeon’s Case Assigned to New Court Amid Concerns of Fairness The case of Judge Ji Gwi-yeon, who has been indicted by the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission (ACRC) over allegations of receiving illicit entertainment, has been reassigned to a new court.On September 8, the Seoul Central District Court announced that Judge Jis case, involving violations of the Anti-Corruption Act, has been transferred to Criminal Division 10, presided over by Judge Lee Jae-wook.Previously, the case was assigned to Criminal Division 4, led by Judge Park Kang-kyun. However, concerns about the fairness of the trial arose after it was revealed that Judge Park and Judge Ji are classmates from the 31st Judicial Research and Training Institute.In response to these concerns, Judge Park requested the court to reassign the case, citing potential misunderstandings regarding the trials impartiality. The court acknowledged the reasons for the reassignment, and the case was transferred within a day. The Seoul Central District Court explained that the reassignment was determined through a random computerized allocation process.Judge Ji previously presided over the first trial of the case against former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was accused of instigating a state of emergency on December 3. During that trial, Judge Ji made headlines by calculating the detention period of former President Yoon in hours rather than days, leading to his release from custody and drawing sharp criticism from the then-opposition Democratic Party.Following this, the Democratic Party alleged that Judge Ji received entertainment at a room salon in Gangnam and released related photographs. Civic groups subsequently reported Judge Ji to the ACRC for violations of the Anti-Corruption Act.According to the ACRC, Judge Ji is accused of having his drink expenses, amounting to 4.09 million won, covered by two lawyers, acquaintances of his, at a reservation-only bar in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam, in August 2023. The Anti-Corruption Act stipulates that public officials who receive gifts or entertainment exceeding 1 million won from the same individual in a single instance are subject to punishment, regardless of the relevance to their duties or any expectation of reciprocity.As a result, the ACRC indicted Judge Ji for violations of the Anti-Corruption Act on September 4. However, considering that the individuals present were lawyers, the ACRC also investigated the possibility of reciprocity but decided not to apply bribery charges, as there were no cases assigned to Judge Jis court by these lawyers at that time.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 1
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Ruitun Implements New Youth Protection Policies for AI Chatbot Use As artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots become a new means of communication and entertainment for youth, South Korea is introducing policies to directly limit usage time and payment amounts. Recognizing that users can become immersed in conversations with AI characters for extended periods, companies are taking proactive measures to ensure safety.On September 8, Ruitun Technologies announced plans to strengthen its youth protection policies. The key aspect is setting limits on usage time and payment amounts. The company plans to restrict the daily usage of its AI chatbot, Crack, to a maximum of three hours and to cap monthly payments at 100,000 won.If users exceed three hours of service or their monthly payments surpass 100,000 won, they will need to undergo a verification and consent process from a guardian. This aims to manage excessive usage and spending directly.The usage time for AI chat applications is rapidly increasing. Total usage time for AI chat apps surged from approximately 1.1 million hours in April 2024 to about 63.1 million hours in March of this year, marking a 57-fold increase in just two years. As usage time rises, the number of youth becoming overly immersed in these services is also growing.Crack allows users to create their own AI characters or choose from existing ones to engage in conversations, crafting their own stories and creations. While it can be used for free, users must purchase in-app currency called Crackers for deeper conversations or image generation. As conversations with characters lengthen, the use of paid currency can also increase, prompting the need to manage both usage time and payment amounts.Ruituns decision to set a specific usage limit stems from the unique service structure of AI chatbots, which differs from traditional information-seeking AIs. Instead of users asking questions and ending the service after receiving answers, they can continuously interact with specific characters, developing relationships and narratives.The company also plans to enhance its age verification methods. Currently, Crack distinguishes between adults and youth using the PASS authentication service provided by mobile carriers. Ruitun is reviewing additional verification methods to improve the accuracy and safety of age confirmation, considering both domestic and international examples.Content safety measures will also be revised. Ruitun plans to comprehensively review Cracks content generation policies, age rating management, content review systems, search and recommendation limitations, reporting and blocking features, and sanctions for violations to adapt to changing usage patterns. The company will enhance AI safety technologies, including additional filters and safety system prompts to filter out inappropriate or dangerous conversations.This initiative is seen as Ruituns commitment to strengthening user protection alongside business growth. The company has recently begun the process of selecting underwriters for its initial public offering (IPO) as it seeks to expand its operations. Ruitun CEO Lee Se-young has previously stated the companys goal of creating AI that users can trust and use safely.Ruitun plans to fully implement the enhanced youth protection policies in early 2027 after completing institutional and technical reviews and system overhauls.Lee Dong-jae, Ruituns Chief Product Officer, stated, We recognize our social responsibility to provide safe and healthy AI services for everyone. We will make every effort to create a service that prioritizes the safety of youth users while also fostering creativity. September 8, 2026 1
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KOSPI closes below 7,000 as higher oil prices wipe out chip-led gains SEOUL, September 8 (AJP) - South Korean stocks gave up a strong early gain on Tuesday, with the country's benchmark index closing below 7,000 points as higher oil prices and caution ahead of U.S. inflation data offset gains in chip stocks and hopes for U.S. investment projects. The KOSPI closed at 6,954.52, down 0.58 percent from the previous session. The index opened above 7,000 and climbed steadily through much of the morning, reclaiming the level intraday for the first time in 15 trading sessions. It rose to an intraday high of 7,171.52 before reversing in the afternoon. Selling intensified near the close and pushed the index as low as 6,951.78. It finished at 6,954.52, nearly 220 points below its intraday high. The early rally was led by chip stocks as investors bet that OpenAI's new generative pre-trained transformer (GPT)-6 Astra model would boost memory demand. Samsung Electronics rose earlier in the session before slipping 0.19 percent to 269,500 won at the close. SK hynix climbed as high as 1,889,000 won, up nearly 6 percent intraday, before giving back most of its gains to finish 0.56 percent higher at 1,793,000 won. SK Square rose 0.53 percent to 1,131,000 won. Nuclear, power-equipment and construction shares also rallied on expectations that South Korean companies could participate in major U.S. power projects under Seoul's US$350 billion investment commitment. Reports have pointed to discussions over as many as eight large nuclear reactors and a gas-fired power project in Texas. Doosan Enerbility jumped as much as 6.37 percent to 93,500 won on hopes for those projects before paring gains to close 1.82 percent higher at 89,500 won. Buying remained strong in other nuclear and construction shares at the close. Daewoo E&C rose 8.47 percent to 19,970 won, while KEPCO E&C surged 16.60 percent to 142,600 won. The market lost momentum later in the day as international oil prices climbed further after an attack on a Saudi Aramco refinery. West Texas Intermediate futures rose above $93 a barrel, while Brent crude topped $97. Investors also turned cautious ahead of U.S. inflation data, with the producer price index due Thursday and the consumer price index on Friday. Despite the late selloff, foreign and institutional investors remained net buyers. Foreign investors bought a net 631.6 billion won ($470 million) and institutions purchased 642.7 billion won, while retail investors sold 3.03 trillion won. Electrical equipment fell 3.33 percent, IT services dropped 3.76 percent and electronic products lost 4.17 percent. Electronic equipment and devices were the weakest group, sliding 4.92 percent. Auto parts, air freight and logistics, and electrical products each fell about 2.9 percent. Losses were broad among other large-cap stocks. Samsung Electro-Mechanics tumbled 5.78 percent to 1,370,000 won. LG Energy Solution fell 3.86 percent to 348,500 won. Hyundai Motor dropped 2.04 percent to 385,000 won. Samsung Biologics declined 1.77 percent to 1,440,000 won, KB Financial fell 1.25 percent to 173,700 won and Samsung Life lost 1.28 percent to 308,000 won. Kia dropped 2.34 percent to 125,400 won, Hyundai Mobis slid 3.94 percent to 415,000 won and LG Electronics fell 4.21 percent to 205,000 won. The junior KOSDAQ followed a similar intraday pattern, reversing an early gain to close 1.25 percent lower at 811.88. It climbed as high as 830.21 in morning trading before turning lower in the afternoon. Institutions sold a net 217.9 billion won, while retail investors bought 149.1 billion won and foreign investors purchased 60.8 billion won. Losses were broad across the market. General services, pharmaceuticals and textiles and apparel stocks each fell more than 1 percent. Machinery and equipment, chemicals and manufacturing stocks also lost more than 1 percent. Metals and entertainment and culture shares ended slightly higher. Nuclear-related shares bucked the broader KOSDAQ decline. Orbitech, which provides nuclear services and inspection, hit the daily ceiling and closed 29.83 percent higher at 6,050 won. Woori Technology, which supplies control and monitoring systems for nuclear power plants, gained 8.15 percent to 11,810 won. Among semiconductor equipment and component shares, Jusung Engineering, which makes semiconductor deposition equipment rose 3.95 percent to 194,600 won. Simmtech, a maker of semiconductor package substrates gained 1.67 percent to 121,800 won. FADU, a fabless chipmaker specializing in SSD controllers and storage solutions, fell 1.78 percent to 104,800 won. Other chip equipment and component makers also finished lower. Wonik IPS fell 1.53 percent to 115,800 won. EO Technics dropped 2.08 percent to 446,500 won, while ISC declined 1.61 percent to 183,000 won. Losses were steeper in biotechnology and robotics shares. Alteogen, a biopharmaceutical company known for its drug-delivery platform technology, fell 3.15 percent to 277,000 won. HLB, which develops anticancer drugs, dropped 3.95 percent to 31,650 won, while Rainbow Robotics, a developer of collaborative and humanoid robot platforms, slid 3.35 percent to 433,000 won. In the currency market, the Korean won weakened to 1,345.2 per dollar from 1,340.5 a day earlier. Across the region, Japan's Nikkei 225 fell 1.70 percent to 65,269.33 as a stronger yen weighed on exporters. China's Shanghai Composite rose 0.20 percent to 3,940.55, supported by stronger August exports, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index slipped 0.38 percent to 25,317.43 amid caution over rising oil prices and Middle East tensions. With U.S. inflation data due later this week, investors are likely to remain sensitive to energy prices and any signals that could alter expectations for the Federal Reserve's interest-rate path. AJP Takeaways - South Korea's KOSPI closed at 6,954.52 on September 8, 2026, down 0.58 percent, after climbing as high as 7,171.52 earlier in the session before surging oil prices and caution ahead of U.S. inflation data erased the day's gains. - Semiconductor shares and U.S.-linked nuclear and power stocks led the early rally, with SK hynix reaching 1,889,000 won intraday and KEPCO Engineering & Construction closing 16.60 percent higher at 142,600 won. - Foreign investors bought a net 631.6 billion won ($470 million) of KOSPI shares and institutions purchased 642.7 billion won, while retail investors sold 3.03 trillion won as the market reversed sharply late in the session. September 8, 2026 1 -
SK Broadband Launches 'B tv+ max' with 300,000 Content Options SK Broadband announced on September 7 that it will launch an all-in-one subscription service, B tv+ max, which offers access to over 300,000 content options and 255 live channels.B tv+ max enhances the existing B tv subscription service by adding content from the three major broadcasters: KBS, MBC, and SBS. The service provides a wide range of genres, including terrestrial, comprehensive channels, cable, movies, kids programming, animation, and documentaries.The new service also simplifies the process of finding content across various online video services (OTT), IPTV, and cable. Users can easily navigate live channels and video-on-demand (VOD) options from a dedicated home screen upon turning on their TV.Content tailored for different family members has been strengthened. Parents can enjoy terrestrial dramas and current affairs programs, while those in their 30s and 40s can access movies and entertainment shows. Children can enjoy kids programming and animation, all within a single service. This broad offering aims to reduce the financial burden of multiple subscriptions across different platforms.The service includes artificial intelligence (AI) personalized recommendations and curation features. It suggests content based on users viewing history and patterns, and offers curated selections based on various criteria such as film festivals, seasons, directors, actors, genres, emotions, and broadcast days.Subscribers can also access works not available on major OTT platforms like Netflix, Tving, and Disney+. This includes films released in theaters this year, such as The King and the Man, Salmon, and Crayon Shin-chan, as well as The Fairy of Jangsu Bathhouse and Pororo Season 9.Additionally, the service is linked to the YouTube channel PiaKia, run by film critic Lee Dong-jin, which provides recommended films and review videos.Users can register up to four mobile devices and watch content simultaneously on TV and mobile. Subscribers will also have opportunities to participate in cultural and sports events, including concerts, musicals, and KBO postseason and All-Star games. The subscription fee is an additional 6,600 won on top of the IPTV live channel fee.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 1
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Park Ji-hyun Joins Global Basketball League 'Project B' with First Camp in Seoul The global tour-based professional basketball league Project B, set to launch in 2027, has announced the addition of South Korean star Park Ji-hyun, who currently plays for the Los Angeles Sparks, marking the start of its first season in Seoul.On September 8, Project B revealed that it will hold its inaugural official training camp in Seoul from January 6 to 12, 2027. The camp will gather players from around the world, along with coaching staff and officials, to begin preparations for the leagues first season.Project B aims to create a player-centered structure that allows athletes to directly participate in the leagues long-term value. Unlike traditional location-based professional leagues, it will feature top players forming teams that compete in major cities across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The league plans to combine high-level basketball games with local culture and entertainment, expanding into a global sports platform.The first season will tour seven cities, with each event lasting around ten days. Tokyo, Japan, and Valencia, Spain, have been confirmed as host cities. The Tokyo event will take place from March 26 to April 4, 2027, at the Toyota Arena, while the Valencia event is scheduled for March 12 to 22, 2027, at the La Fonteta Arena. Additional host cities have yet to be announced.The training camp will be based at the Park Hyatt Seoul in Gangnam. Project B plans to go beyond simple preseason training by launching various content, cultural, and community programs in Seoul, showcasing a new global basketball experience.Park Ji-hyuns participation is particularly noteworthy. As the third South Korean player to compete in a regular season game in the WNBA, she is currently with the Los Angeles Sparks and will engage in her first official activities with new teammates during the training camp in Seoul.The fact that Project B is holding its training camp in Seoul is especially meaningful to me, Park said. Korea is my hometown. I am proud that my fellow players from around the world will experience the energy, culture, and passion for basketball in Korea. I look forward to welcoming everyone in Seoul and starting this new journey together.Parks involvement and the training camp in Seoul reflect Project Bs focus on the Asian market.Jeff Prentice, co-founder and CEO of Project B, stated, Deciding to start Project Bs new journey in Seoul demonstrates our long-term commitment to Korea and our belief that Asia will be a crucial hub for the future of global basketball. We are very proud to have the worlds best players and Koreas top talent come together in a country with a deep passion for basketball. He added, Korea is currently leading global culture. The music, fashion, beauty, food, and entertainment emerging from Seoul are influencing people worldwide, and our players will have the opportunity to experience this rich culture firsthand.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 1
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Judge Ji Gwi-yeon to Face Trial Over Allegations of Alcohol Entertainment Judge Ji Gwi-yeon of the Seoul Northern District Court will have her trial over allegations of alcohol entertainment presided over by a fellow judge from her judicial training class.According to legal sources on September 8, the Seoul Central District Court has assigned the case involving Judge Jis violation of the Anti-Corruption Act to Chief Judge Park Gang-kyun of the Criminal Division 4. The date for the first hearing has not yet been determined.Judge Park is a classmate of Judge Ji from the 31st Judicial Research and Training Institute. Being classmates does not automatically disqualify him from presiding over the case, but he may recuse himself if he believes he cannot conduct a fair trial.The Corruption Investigation Office, led by Chief Prosecutor Lee Dae-hwan, indicted Judge Ji without detention on September 4 for violating the Anti-Corruption Act.Judge Ji is accused of receiving 1.36 million won worth of entertainment after having two lawyers cover a bill of 4.09 million won at a reservation-only bar in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam, in August 2023.The Anti-Corruption Act stipulates that public officials who receive goods or entertainment worth more than 1 million won from the same individual in a single instance are subject to punishment, regardless of the relevance to their duties or any quid pro quo.The two lawyers reportedly split the bill at the time. The Corruption Investigation Office determined that they had shared the intent to entertain Judge Ji and divided the costs among the three attendees, estimating the value of the entertainment received by Judge Ji at 1.36 million won.Considering that the providers of the entertainment were lawyers, the Corruption Investigation Office also investigated the possibility of quid pro quo. However, based on the fact that there were no cases assigned to Judge Jis court by the lawyers at that time, they concluded that it was difficult to establish a connection to her official duties and did not apply bribery charges.Judge Ji previously served as the presiding judge in the first trial of former President Yoon Suk Yeols insurrection case, where she sentenced him to life imprisonment. She transferred to the Seoul Northern District Court during the regular personnel reshuffle in February of this year.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 1