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KOSPI Approaches 7000 Mark as Foreign Investors Buy 3 Trillion Won The KOSPI index surged by over 2%, nearing the 7000 mark, driven by strong foreign buying. The KOSDAQ also showed volatility, briefly turning negative before closing slightly higher. Both indices have now recorded five consecutive days of gains.On August 14, the Korea Exchange reported that the KOSPI closed at 6977.94, up 164.60 points (2.42%) from the previous trading day. The index opened at 6995.67, up 182.33 points (2.68%).In the securities market, individual and institutional investors sold a net 1.98 trillion won and 1.06 trillion won, respectively. In contrast, foreign investors purchased a net 3.38 trillion won.Most of the top market capitalization stocks in the KOSPI ended higher, including Hyundai Motor (up 8.12%), Samsung Electro-Mechanics (up 3.66%), SK Hynix (up 3.45%), Samsung Life Insurance (up 3.26%), SK Square (up 3.13%), Samsung Electronics (up 2.24%), Samsung C&T (up 1.10%), LG Energy Solution (up 0.82%), and KB Financial Group (up 0.24%). However, Hanwha Aerospace (-1.94%) and Samsung Biologics (-0.96%) saw declines.Meanwhile, the KOSDAQ closed at 864.65, up 3.28 points (0.38%). The index opened at 868.07, up 6.70 points (0.78%), but at one point fell to 845.41, down 15.96 points (1.85%).In the KOSDAQ market, individual and institutional investors sold a net 1.64 trillion won and 1.08 trillion won, respectively, while foreign investors bought a net 2.76 trillion won.The top stocks in the KOSDAQ showed mixed results. IOTech (up 6.61%), EcoPro BM (up 1.75%), EcoPro (up 1.19%), Rainbow Robotics (up 0.80%), and HLB (up 0.58%) gained, while Wonik IPS (-2.83%), ABL Bio (-3.00%), Peptron (-1.37%), Alteogen (-1.10%), JUSUNG Engineering (-0.84%), Rino Technology (-0.70%), and Samchully Pharmaceutical (-0.21%) declined.Analysts noted that foreign buying supported the KOSPIs rise. Lee Kyung-min, a researcher at Daishin Securities, stated, The KOSPI briefly surpassed the 7000 mark due to easing concerns over the Federal Reserves interest rate hikes and improved investor sentiment in the memory sector. However, profit-taking after five consecutive days of gains led to some pullback in the index.He added, As foreign investors continue to buy for four consecutive days, a differentiated market trend is emerging based on sector-specific news.* This article has been translated by AI. August 14, 2026 16: -
Korean National Assembly Speaker Meets Bill Gates to Discuss Global Health Cooperation Cho Jung-sik, Speaker of the National Assembly, met with Bill Gates, Chairman of the Gates Foundation, on August 14 to discuss strengthening partnerships with global health organizations, including the Gates Foundation. He emphasized that global health will be a key agenda in parliamentary diplomacy.The two leaders held a closed-door meeting for about 35 minutes at the National Assembly. During the meeting, Cho stated, I understand that the Gates Foundation has been making significant efforts to integrate AI into health, education, and agriculture. The National Assembly of Korea has also enacted the worlds second AI Basic Law, which has been in effect since January of this year, and we are working to ensure that the benefits of AI are accessible to all, without inequality or exclusion.This visit marks Gates return to South Korea after a year, having previously visited in August 2025 to emphasize international cooperation in health. Cho noted, The World Bio Summit will be held in Korea this October, and I have heard that the Gates Foundation will open an office in Korea by the end of the year. This will provide an opportunity for the National Assembly to further strengthen partnerships with global health organizations, including the Gates Foundation, and prioritize global health in parliamentary diplomacy.In response, Gates expressed gratitude for the National Assemblys interest in global health and acknowledged Koreas contributions to global health initiatives. He added, The foundation is currently building close partnerships with various Korean companies to prevent global pandemics, and I hope that our collaboration will deepen in the future. August 14, 2026 16:
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KOSPI Stabilizes Around 6900 While KOSDAQ Turns Lower The KOSPI index showed signs of stabilization around the 6900 level on August 14. The KOSDAQ started the day with gains but turned lower in the afternoon, trading around the 850 mark.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 1:14 PM, the KOSPI was trading at 6917.95, up 104.61 points (1.54%) from the previous trading day. The index opened at 6995.67, up 182.33 points (2.68%), and peaked at 7010.86 early in the session before fluctuating around the 6900 level.In the securities market, foreign investors were net buyers of 1.54 trillion won worth of stocks, while individual and institutional investors sold a net 520 billion won and 997.7 billion won, respectively.Among the top market capitalization stocks in the KOSPI, Hyundai Motor (up 7.65%), SK Square (up 3.85%), Samsung Electro-Mechanics (up 3.59%), SK Hynix (up 3.26%), Kia (up 3.06%), Samsung Life Insurance (up 2.74%), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (up 2.02%), Samsung Electronics (up 1.03%), and Samsung C&T (up 0.96%) saw gains. Conversely, Hanwha Aerospace (down 2.78%), Samsung Biologics (down 0.83%), LG Energy Solution (down 0.68%), and KB Financial (down 0.06%) experienced declines.Kang Jin-hyuk, a researcher at Shinhan Investment Corp, noted, The KOSPI continued its upward trend after the U.S. Producer Price Index (PPI) announcement eased interest rate concerns. After briefly surpassing the 7000 mark, profit-taking occurred, supported by foreign investors who have been net buyers for four consecutive trading days.At the same time, the KOSDAQ was trading at 861.25, down 0.12 points (0.01%) from the previous trading day. The index opened at 868.07, up 6.70 points (0.78%), and reached a high of 879.29 before turning lower.In the KOSDAQ market, individual investors were net buyers of 339.7 billion won, while foreign and institutional investors sold a net 112.4 billion won and 221.7 billion won, respectively.The top market capitalization stocks in the KOSDAQ showed mixed results. Stocks such as IOTech (up 6.34%), Rainbow Robotics (up 1.21%), EcoPro BM (up 1.05%), Samchundang Pharm (up 0.26%), and EcoPro (up 0.11%) rose. In contrast, Wonik IPS (down 3.42%), ABL Bio (down 3.00%), JUSUNG Engineering (down 2.34%), Alteogen (down 0.94%), Rino Technology (down 0.84%), and Peptron (down 0.76%) fell. HLB remained unchanged.Kang added, The KOSDAQ appears to be taking a breather after a recent rebound due to excessive declines, with profit-taking emerging. While stocks related to physical AI have performed relatively well, the overall decline in major market capitalization stocks has contributed to the downturn.* This article has been translated by AI. August 14, 2026 14:
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KOSPI Fluctuates Around 7000 Mark with Early Gains; KOSDAQ Rises Over 1% The KOSPI index surged over 2% in early trading, fluctuating around the 7000 mark. The KOSDAQ also showed a rise of over 1%.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 9:06 a.m., the KOSPI was trading at 6976.33, up 162.99 points (2.39%) from the previous trading day. The index opened at 6995.67, up 182.33 points (2.68%), and reached a high of 7010.86 early in the session.In the securities market, individual and foreign investors were net buyers, purchasing 470.5 billion won and 201.7 billion won, respectively. Meanwhile, institutions were net sellers, offloading 667.7 billion won.Most of the top market capitalization stocks showed strong performance. Hyundai Motor rose by 6.93%, followed by SK Hynix at 5.78%, Samsung Life at 5.32%, Samsung Electro-Mechanics at 3.33%, Kia at 3.28%, SK Square at 2.78%, Samsung Electronics at 1.68%, Samsung C&T at 1.51%, LG Energy Solution at 0.82%, and Samsung Biologics at 0.32%. In contrast, Hanwha Aerospace fell by 1.86% and KB Financial dropped by 0.59%.At the same time, the KOSDAQ was trading at 874.34, up 12.97 points (1.51%) from the previous day. The index opened at 868.07, up 6.70 points (0.78%), and continued its upward trend.In the KOSDAQ market, individual and institutional investors were net sellers, selling 12 billion won and 16.9 billion won, respectively. Conversely, foreign investors were net buyers, purchasing 26.7 billion won.Most of the top KOSDAQ stocks also experienced gains. IOTechniques rose by 4.89%, followed by Juseong Engineering at 3.18%, Rainbow Robotics at 2.82%, EcoPro BM at 2.71%, EcoPro at 2.28%, HLB at 2.11%, Alteogen at 0.63%, and ABL Bio at 0.58%. Rino Industrial remained flat, while Wonik IPS fell by 2.08%.Han Ji-young, a researcher at Kiwoom Securities, stated, Despite profit-taking pressures following recent consecutive gains and cautious sentiment ahead of the holiday, the domestic stock market is expected to show a strong trend, supported by relief over the U.S. Producer Price Index for July and positive news from SanDisk.He added, While there may be adjustments due to profit-taking pressures during the session, considering the improved market resilience and quality of supply and demand compared to the past, the market is likely to continue on a recovery path, consistently raising its lows.* This article has been translated by AI. August 14, 2026 09:
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Launch of 1 Trillion Won LP Growth Fund with 340 Billion Won from Private Sector The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and Korea Venture Investment Corp. announced on August 13 that they held the launch ceremony for the LP (Limited Partner) Growth Fund and the Third Quarter Fund of Funds Policy Forum at the Startup Venture Campus (SVC) in Seogyo-dong, Seoul.The LP Growth Fund is an investment platform designed to facilitate participation from various investment institutions in venture capital. It is jointly established by pension funds, financial institutions, industry, and the government.The government has structured a two-track investment program through self-funds or master funds, providing benefits such as priority loss coverage and put options to encourage diverse private investment institutions to engage in venture capital.This LP Growth Fund marks a significant step for the Fund of Funds to evolve into a next-generation venture investment platform that attracts new investors and expands pension fund contributions. Among the 18 participating institutions, five are entering venture capital investments for the first time through this fund.Typically, the government’s contribution ratio is around 60%, but it has been reduced to 20% in this case, enhancing the multiplier effect of government finances by more than five times. A total of 510 billion won will be raised for the 1 trillion won venture fund, with 340 billion won from the private sector and 170 billion won from the Fund of Funds.The Ministry plans to focus the fund on strategic industries. It will create a specialized defense fund worth 110 billion won in collaboration with a consortium of the Export-Import Bank of Korea and BNK Financial Group. Additionally, a 250 billion won open innovation fund will be launched, involving companies such as Naver, Hyosung, GS, Seonik Systems, Far East Logistics Group, and Taehwa Group, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), beauty, bio, and defense sectors.The first investment project will be announced on August 14, and the selection of fund managers is expected to proceed within the fourth quarter.Following the fund launch ceremony, the policy forum addressed the prerequisites for private investors to incorporate venture capital as a key component of long-term asset allocation.Acting Minister of SMEs and Startups No Yong-seok stated, The government must prepare for the era of Fund of Funds 2.0, where national capital flows into venture capital, moving beyond just being a provider of initial funding. We will strengthen the role of the Fund of Funds as a next-generation venture investment platform through this fund launch.* This article has been translated by AI. August 13, 2026 17:
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BlackRock Expands Stakes in South Korean Biotech Firms The world’s largest asset manager, BlackRock, has increased its stakes in major South Korean pharmaceutical and biotech companies to over 5% this year, signaling a reassessment of the K-Bio sector. The investments by BlackRock and other foreign funds in domestic biotech firms are interpreted as a shift towards selecting companies with strong cash flow generation potential, rather than merely betting on clinical success.According to the Financial Supervisory Service’s electronic disclosure system and industry sources, BlackRock’s subsidiary, BlackRock Fund Advisors, and its affiliates have raised their stake in HLB to 7.15% and in Alteogen to 5.03%. They also increased their stake in Yuhan from 5.07% in June to 6.50% last month.In the case of HLB, BlackRock raised its stake from 5.01% in March to 6.05% in June, and then to 7.15% at the end of last month, making it the second-largest shareholder after HLB Group Chairman Jin Yang-gon. Alteogen’s stake increased from 4.98% (2,670,175 shares) on July 30 to 5.03% (2,694,448 shares) the following day, qualifying it for a large shareholder report.Other foreign asset managers are also expanding their stakes in domestic pharmaceutical companies. U.S.-based Copernic Global Investors has continuously purchased shares in Jongkundang, raising its stake to 8.38%.The increase in stakes by foreign asset managers in South Korean pharmaceutical and biotech firms aligns with a trend of additional investments in companies that have achieved billion-dollar technology exports and global commercialization successes.Yuhan is being highly regarded for its long-term growth potential, particularly due to the global commercialization success of its lung cancer drug, Lecraza, and the possibility of further technology exports. BlackRock’s consecutive stake increases in June and July reflect this optimism.Alteogen has successfully transferred technology to GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) affiliates and Biogen, leveraging its human hyaluronidase platform, ALT-B4. The market views BlackRock’s acquisition of over 5% as a recognition of Alteogen’s technological capabilities and commercialization potential.HLB is set to seek FDA approval for its bile duct cancer treatment, Liraglutide, next month. According to HLB, it recently held a late-cycle meeting with the FDA regarding the approval review for Liraglutide as a second-line treatment for bile duct cancer. The company reported that there were no significant disagreements during the review process, and no new review issues that could affect approval were raised, heightening expectations for approval. The late-cycle meeting is an official procedure to address remaining issues and discuss drug labeling and post-marketing compliance plans as the approval review nears completion.However, the situation is different for another drug candidate in HLB’s pipeline. HLB’s U.S. subsidiary, Elevate Therapeutics, received a third complete response letter (CRL) from the FDA regarding its new drug application (NDA) for the combination therapy of Ribociclib and Camrelizumab. The CRL was due to identified issues during the cGMP inspection of the manufacturing facility by Chinas Hansoh Pharmaceutical. This has increased uncertainty regarding the timeline for entering the U.S. market. Some analysts suggest that BlackRock may view this third CRL as limited to manufacturing-related issues, indicating a possibility for resolution.Kiwoom Securities noted, Interest from foreign investors is expanding beyond mere expectations of clinical success to include companies that are undervalued or have a high potential for actual cash flow generation. However, they cautioned that it is difficult to interpret the recent stake increases as a sign of active investment in K-Bio, suggesting the need to consider the potential for passive and index effects. August 13, 2026 17:
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KOSPI Rises Over 3% as Foreign Investors Buy 2.1 Trillion Won Amid Strong Semiconductor Stocks The KOSPI and KOSDAQ both closed higher for the fourth consecutive trading day. The KOSPI rose more than 3% as foreign and institutional investors bought shares, particularly in major semiconductor stocks like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. The KOSDAQ also ended on a positive note, recovering above the 860 mark.According to the Korea Exchange, the KOSPI closed at 6,813.34, up 234.30 points (3.56%) from the previous trading day. The index opened at 6,773.92, up 194.88 points (2.96%), and expanded its gains throughout the day, reaching as high as 6,895.63 before giving back some of its gains.Individuals sold a net 27.348 billion won worth of stocks, while foreign and institutional investors bought a net 21.060 billion won and 6.815 billion won, respectively.Most of the top market capitalization stocks saw gains. Samsung Electronics rose 4.89%, SK Hynix increased by 5.92%, Samsung Electronics preferred shares were up 0.91%, SK Square climbed 9.08%, Samsung Electro-Mechanics surged 12.58%, Hyundai Motor rose 2.20%, LG Energy Solution increased by 1.95%, Samsung Biologics was up 0.97%, Hanwha Aerospace rose 2.51%, KB Financial gained 1.27%, and Samsung C&T increased by 2.10%.The strength of major semiconductor stocks drove the index higher. The U.S. stock market saw the July Consumer Price Index (CPI) meet market expectations, and AI-related semiconductor stocks performed well. Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix continued their upward trend, with companies involved in semiconductor materials, parts, and equipment, such as Wonik IPS, also benefiting with a 7.62% increase.Samsung Electro-Mechanics surged 12.58% as expectations grew for increased demand for multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) due to expanded investments in AI data centers, leading to a broader buying trend in related stocks.On the same day, the KOSDAQ closed at 861.37, up 2.46 points (0.29%). The index opened at 863.15, up 4.24 points (0.49%), and briefly rose to 870.96 but gave back some gains in the afternoon, finishing in positive territory.Individuals bought a net 25.71 billion won worth of stocks, while foreign and institutional investors sold a net 13.63 billion won and 11.58 billion won, respectively.Among the top KOSDAQ stocks, Alteogen closed flat, while EcoPro rose 0.88%, EcoPro BM increased by 0.09%, Rainbow Robotics was up 1.43%, Juseong Engineering gained 3.05%, Wonik IPS rose 7.62%, and HLB increased by 2.76%. Conversely, Rino Industrial fell 0.14%, and IOTechniques dropped 1.82%. ABL Bio closed flat.Lim Jeong-eun, a researcher at KB Securities, stated, The U.S. stock markets July CPI meeting market expectations and the strong performance of AI semiconductor stocks have contributed to the ongoing rally of Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix in the domestic market. With large-cap stocks attracting attention, the semiconductor materials and parts sector is also benefiting from positive expectations.He added, Attention should be paid to the U.S. Producer Price Index (PPI) set to be announced tonight. Following the CPI release, the outlook for a rate freeze in September has risen to about 60%, and it is essential to see if the market maintains a favorable interpretation of inflation.Meanwhile, in the Seoul foreign exchange market, the weekly closing exchange rate for the won against the dollar was recorded at 1,419.4 won, up 3.7 won from the previous day.* This article has been translated by AI. August 13, 2026 16:
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New Public Housing Developments in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province to Provide 27,000 Units The government plans to establish new public housing districts in three areas of the metropolitan region, including Gangseo in Seoul and Namyangju and Gwangju in Gyeonggi Province, totaling over 27,000 units. The time from the announcement of new land sites to the start of construction will be reduced by nearly half, aiming for groundbreaking within three to four years. The government intends to secure a total of 100,000 units or more in new public housing sites in the metropolitan area by the end of the year.According to the Rapid Housing Supply Plan announced by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport on August 13, the new public housing districts will include 1,000 units in Yeomchang-dong, Gangseo-gu, Seoul; 21,700 units in Wabu-eup, Namyangju; and 4,500 units in Jangji-dong, Gwangju, for a total of 27,200 units.In Seoul, the site of Yeomchang Park has been selected for the new housing project. The 51,000 square meter area has been left unused for nearly 20 years since a private development project was canceled in 2006. The plan includes the construction of 1,000 public housing units, along with the creation of open green spaces connected to the existing Yeomchang Park, aimed at providing affordable housing for young people and others without homes.The project will streamline the process by integrating district designation and planning, while also expediting compensation. The government aims to begin construction by 2029, 33 months after the announcement of the candidate sites.The largest development will be in the urban area of Namyangju, where 21,700 units will be built on 2.28 million square meters in Wabu-eup. This area is adjacent to the urban station on the Gyeongui-Jungang Line and includes the Korea University Deokso Farm, located in a greenbelt area.The government plans to proactively establish a comprehensive transportation plan linked to the existing railway network and develop an agricultural bio-cluster to create a self-sufficient city. The goal is to complete district designation by the second half of 2027, finish compensation by the second half of 2029, and start construction in the first half of 2030.In Gwangju, 4,500 units will be built in the area around Gyeonggi Gwangju Station, covering 480,000 square meters. This site is close to the Gyeonggang Line station and is expected to improve access to Seoul further with the upcoming Suseo-Gwangju Line, set to open in 2031.The plan includes creating a youth-focused residential complex by utilizing the industrial network connecting Pangyo Techno Valley and the Yongin semiconductor cluster. Similar to Namyangju, the government aims to designate the district in the second half of 2027, complete compensation by the second half of 2029, and begin construction in the first half of 2030.The 27,000 units announced are part of the governments new land supply plan. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport plans to announce an additional 73,000 units or more by the end of the year, increasing the total number of new public housing units to 100,000 or more.Notably, the 73,000 units that have not yet been disclosed are not merely under review but are effectively confirmed locations, according to the government.Minister Kim Yoon-deok stated, The 73,000 units have already been agreed upon with local governments, adding that the delay in announcement is due to administrative review processes, including gathering resident opinions.He also suggested that the undeclared sites may include areas within development-restricted zones (greenbelts). Minister Kim emphasized the importance of preserving greenbelts but noted that if areas can be released for housing development, it could significantly stabilize supply.He further explained, The areas we are considering for development are primarily those that are already significantly damaged and rated 3 to 4 in terms of environmental quality, and expressed plans to actively prepare for additional supply in consultation with the Seoul city government and local authorities. August 13, 2026 16:
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PharmaResearch Expands 'Rejuran' Clinical Training in Australia, Accelerating K-Aesthetic Global Strategy PharmaResearch is intensifying its efforts to penetrate the Australian market by providing focused clinical training on its flagship product, Rejuran, to local medical professionals. The company announced on August 13 that it participated in the Aesthetics 2026 international symposium held in Sydney, Australia, where it conducted academic lectures and a Rejuran Clinical Masterclass program centered on Rejuran. Aesthetics 2026 is an event where dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and aesthetic experts from Australia share the latest advancements in aesthetic medicine and clinical experiences. The symposium is hosted by Dr. Steven Liu, a specialist in aesthetic plastic surgery. Key speakers at the academic lectures included Dr. Noh Nak-kyung, director of Cheongdam Leaders Dermatology, and Dr. Choi Ho-sung, director of Chois Dermatology Clinic. They presented treatment plans and procedures based on real clinical cases, focusing on skin barrier improvement, pigmentation, and under-eye skin enhancement. During the Clinical Masterclass, PharmaResearch highlighted the manufacturing technology and clinical evidence of Rejuran, which is based on its proprietary DNA Optimizing Technology (DOT). The program covered patient selection and consultation, individualized treatment plans, and specific procedural methods that Australian medical professionals can apply in their practices. In a separate K-Session, the latest clinical trends in K-Aesthetics and the procedural experiences of domestic medical professionals were shared. The focus was on conveying treatment design and procedural approaches tailored to individual patients, beyond just product introductions. Discussions with Dr. Steven Liu also included potential collaborations for developing academic content suitable for Australian patients and clinical environments, as well as training for medical professionals. Rejuran made its entry into the Australian market after becoming the first PN formulation to receive product approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in 2023. Rejuran is a medical device that utilizes polynucleotides (PN) extracted from salmon as its main ingredient, aimed at improving the regenerative environment of skin tissue. A representative from PharmaResearch stated, We have confirmed that Rejuran is expanding its influence in the global aesthetic medicine market, including Australia, based on academic achievements and clinical evidence beyond Asia. Meanwhile, K-Aesthetics is accelerating its global market penetration and continuing its revenue growth. PharmaResearch reported a consolidated revenue of 324.8 billion won and an operating profit of 123.8 billion won for the first half of the year, marking its highest performance for that period. Exports reached 142.8 billion won, a 47% increase compared to the same period last year. The expansion of Rejuran exports, particularly in Europe, along with a 92% increase in cosmetic exports, has been analyzed as a driving force behind the companys global business growth.* This article has been translated by AI. August 13, 2026 11:
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KOSPI Surges Over 4% in Early Trading, Led by Semiconductor Stocks The KOSPI index surged over 4% in early trading, driven by strong buying from foreign investors and institutions, particularly in major semiconductor stocks like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. In contrast, the KOSDAQ started lower and fluctuated around the previous days closing level.As of 9:15 a.m. on August 13, the KOSPI was trading at 6,872.22, up 293.18 points (4.46%) from the previous trading day. The index opened at 6,773.92, up 194.88 points (2.96%), and briefly reached 6,895.63, nearing the 6,900 mark.While individual investors sold a net 707.1 billion won worth of stocks, foreign and institutional investors bought a net 423.7 billion won and 279.4 billion won, respectively.Most of the top market capitalization stocks showed strong performance. Samsung Electronics rose 5.19%, SK Hynix increased by 7.71%, Samsung Electronics preferred shares were up 2.04%, SK Square climbed 10.16%, and Samsung Electro-Mechanics surged 12.81%. Hyundai Motor gained 4.15%, LG Energy Solution rose 0.70%, Samsung Life Insurance increased by 4.96%, and Samsung C&T was up 5.73%. However, Samsung Biologics fell by 0.77%, while Hanwha Aerospace rose by 2.16%.At the same time, the KOSDAQ index was trading at 853.69, down 5.22 points (0.61%) from the previous trading day. The index opened at 863.15, up 4.24 points (0.49%), but turned downward. It had reached as high as 869.64 during the session but later gave back those gains, fluctuating around the previous days closing level.Individual investors were net buyers of 140.6 billion won, while foreign and institutional investors sold a net 88 billion won and 46.9 billion won, respectively.Most of the top KOSDAQ stocks were underperforming. Alteogen fell by 2.05%, EcoPro dropped by 1.20%, EcoPro BM decreased by 1.40%, Rainbow Robotics was down 0.41%, and LinoTech fell by 0.42%. HLB declined by 2.28%, and ABL Bio dropped by 2.76%. In contrast, semiconductor equipment stocks like JUSUNG Engineering rose by 1.78%, Wonik IPS increased by 5.47%, and EO Technics was up 4.80%.* This article has been translated by AI. August 13, 2026 09:
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Deputy Prime Minister Koo Yoon-cheol to Announce Youth Employment Recovery Plan Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yoon-cheol announced plans to swiftly unveil a recovery strategy for youth employment in response to ongoing job market challenges. The government aims to implement tailored measures for the manufacturing and construction sectors while promoting corporate investment centered around three major mega projects to create quality jobs.On August 13, Koo convened a meeting at the Government Seoul Complex, which included the Emergency Economic Headquarters, the Economic Relations Ministers Meeting, and the Task Force for Special Management of Living Prices. The agenda included discussions on the response to the Middle East conflict, measures to stabilize prices and supply of agricultural and marine products amid heatwaves and droughts, and support for innovation and investment in businesses.Last month, the number of employed individuals increased by 108,000 compared to the same month last year, marking a two-digit growth for the first time in four months. The increase followed a decline of 40,000 in May, with subsequent gains of 63,000 in June and 108,000 in July.However, employment challenges persist among youth and in the manufacturing and construction sectors. The prolonged conflict in the Middle East, along with heatwaves and drought in some regions, are cited as potential risks to employment and prices.Koo stated, “The government will promptly prepare and announce a recovery plan for youth employment and will also develop tailored employment measures for struggling sectors such as manufacturing and construction.”He emphasized the need to accelerate the three mega projects while creating a virtuous cycle where corporate investment leads to enhanced growth and the creation of quality jobs favored by young people.The government will support the activation of delayed on-site projects that have been stalled due to regulatory issues despite corporate demand. In the Gumi and Pohang national industrial complexes, the government will allow not only the establishment of secondary battery manufacturing but also the entry of secondary battery resource recycling businesses, aiming to attract approximately 100 billion won in new investments.For large-scale industrial complexes like the Yongin semiconductor cluster, the government plans to improve the system to allow separate permits for factory expansions, independent of existing building permits. This change is expected to facilitate the swift execution of around 25 trillion won in investments.In the Ochang Science Industrial Complex, a bio company will be allowed to expand its factory using adjacent land, supporting approximately 530 billion won in new investments.Safety standards for industrial robots will be revised to encompass new types, including collaborative and mobile robots. The government will introduce performance-based fire safety design using computer simulations for six key advanced strategic industries: semiconductors, secondary batteries, displays, biotechnology, robotics, and defense.To support new industries and 100% renewable energy (RE100) demand, the limit for designated restricted business zones within industrial complexes will be expanded from the current 30% to 50%.The government is also responding to supply instability in agricultural and marine products due to heatwaves and droughts. It plans to invest 2.2 billion won in discounts for fertilizers and nutrients for cabbage, radishes, fruits, and vegetables, and increase the budget for high-temperature response equipment in aquaculture from 5.8 billion won last year to 9.4 billion won this year.Depending on supply conditions, the government plans to release stockpiled cabbage and radishes into the market and offer discounts of up to 50% on major agricultural and marine products until the Chuseok holiday.The second phase of the Everyones Startup project will also begin recruitment this month. The government plans to select 10,000 successful candidates in early October, followed by regional auditions and a national competition to determine the final winner. By November, mentoring will be provided through 170 specialized incubation institutions, and specialized leagues will be operated for global, university, youth, and social ventures.* This article has been translated by AI. August 13, 2026 09:
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Government to Lift Regulations and Boost Investment in Semiconductor and Bio Sectors The South Korean government is set to eliminate regulations in advanced industries, including semiconductors, secondary batteries, and biotechnology, to support corporate investment. This initiative aims to address business challenges and accelerate the implementation of three major mega-projects. The government anticipates that support for the Yongin semiconductor cluster will generate an investment effect of approximately 4.2 trillion won.On August 13, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yun-cheol chaired a meeting of the Emergency Economic Headquarters and the Economic Relations Ministers meeting, where the Field-Centered Corporate Investment and Innovation Support Plan (Phase 1) was announced. This plan identifies actionable tasks based on suggestions from businesses, local governments, and industry associations.To begin with, the government will ease industry restrictions to allow battery recycling companies to establish themselves in the Gumi and Pohang national industrial complexes. Currently, while battery manufacturing is permitted, the recycling of key minerals from waste batteries is classified under waste management, making it difficult for these companies to set up operations. The government plans to include the manufacturing of intermediate and final materials from recycled lithium, nickel, cobalt, manganese, and graphite as eligible for establishment, supporting around 100 billion won in new investments from 2026 to 2027.A Ministry of Economy and Finance official stated, As South Korea begins to see a significant number of waste batteries from electric vehicles, and since lithium, nickel, and cobalt are not mined domestically, there is a need to develop businesses that recycle these key minerals. This will help establish a value chain and resource circulation ecosystem that encompasses how we extract and utilize minerals before battery manufacturing.In the semiconductor sector, the government will address building permit issues arising from factory expansions in the Yongin semiconductor cluster. Under current regulations, any demand for expansion requires changes to existing building permits. Companies have expressed concerns that repeated permit modifications during the expansion process could halt ongoing construction.The government plans to amend building laws to allow new permits for expansion projects in industrial complexes of a certain size, separate from existing building permits. This change is expected to facilitate the early implementation of approximately 25 trillion won in existing investments.Additionally, tax incentives will be established to support the demonstration of semiconductor materials, components, and equipment. The government intends to introduce a tax exemption for property received by non-profit organizations operating test beds for semiconductor-related companies. The investment scale for related demonstration projects is estimated at around 800 billion won, with specific tax relief amounts to be determined at the time of the actual donation.In the Ochang Science Industrial Complex, the government will change the land use of green spaces owned by Cheongju City to support the expansion of bio-manufacturing facilities, facilitating an investment of about 530 billion won. In the Iksan National Food Cluster, the government will expand the beverage manufacturing site, which has a low occupancy rate, to include food and beverage manufacturing, promoting an investment of approximately 350 billion won.Regulations in advanced industries and robotics will also be revised. The government will clarify safety standards to allow collaborative robots to operate in the same space as humans, with detailed guidelines expected to be established in the first half of next year. Current industrial safety regulations generally require fixed robots to be enclosed by barriers at least 1.8 meters high.A Labor Ministry official noted, There have been ambiguities in the field, and international standards have changed. We aim to clarify these issues and reflect the updated standards in detailed guidelines to reduce on-site inconveniences.For six advanced strategic industries, including semiconductors, secondary batteries, displays, biotechnology, robotics, and defense, the government will introduce fire safety performance-based design using computer simulations. The inspection period for city gas completion at semiconductor factories will be reduced from seven days to three, and some inspection items will be exempted.The government will also ease regulations on industrial complex occupancy. The limit for designating restricted industry zones, where all industries can be allowed, will be expanded from 30% to 50% of industrial land, and the requirement for landowner consent for designating special industry zones will be lowered from two-thirds to a simple majority.Through these measures, the government expects an investment effect of about 4.2 trillion won. However, it is important to note that this includes both new investments and the early implementation of existing investments. Following this first phase of measures, the government plans to identify additional field suggestions and develop a second investment plan focused on ultra-innovative economic leading projects and green industries in the third quarter. August 13, 2026 09:
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Precision Nutrition: Different Responses to the Same Foods What foods should we eat for better health? The answer is simple: consume plenty of vegetables, choose whole grains over refined carbohydrates, and maintain a balanced diet with a variety of foods. While this may sound familiar, the fundamentals of a healthy diet are not overly complicated.But does following the same dietary principles lead to similar responses in everyone? Not necessarily. Some individuals experience a significant spike in blood sugar after eating the same amount of rice, while others see a more gradual increase. Even with identical meal plans, changes in weight and blood lipid levels can vary widely among individuals. Research has shown that blood sugar and triglyceride responses to the same foods can differ significantly from person to person. These differences cannot be attributed solely to the food consumed; they are influenced by genetic traits, health status, physical activity, and gut microbiome, among other factors.Precision nutrition begins with the concept of same food, different responses. While traditional nutrition science has established general guidelines for healthy eating applicable to many, precision nutrition delves deeper into individual characteristics and responses. It moves beyond the question of What should I eat to be healthy? to What should I eat to be healthy for me?Countries around the world are also focusing on individual dietary responses. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States is conducting research through its Nutrition for Precision Health initiative, which uses data on diet, genetic information, gut microbiota, and metabolic information to predict individual dietary responses using artificial intelligence (AI). The UKs PREDICT study and Israels research on personalized post-meal blood sugar responses are notable examples demonstrating that metabolic responses to the same foods can vary among individuals. These studies aim to understand different dietary responses and provide a basis for tailored nutritional management.In the U.S., the Food Is Medicine movement is gaining traction, actively utilizing food and nutrition for health promotion and disease management. This approach emphasizes not only the importance of healthy eating but also connects meal plans and food prescriptions tailored to specific health conditions with medical and community services. Various departments and agencies, led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, are collaborating to advance related policies and initiatives.South Korea has also begun laying the groundwork for its own precision nutrition framework. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety plans to conduct precision nutrition research over five years starting in 2025. This research will link and analyze genomic and clinical data produced by the National Integrated Bio Big Data project with newly collected precision nutrition data.To achieve this, dietary and dietary supplement intake, lifestyle logs, and lifestyle information will be collected from a total of 7,500 participants, with additional gut microbiome and metabolite information gathered from about 3,000 of them. Furthermore, intervention studies considering genomic and gut microbiome characteristics will accumulate evidence on individual dietary responses. The goal is to develop a Korean precision nutrition prediction model and create personalized nutritional management guidelines.The Korean dietary culture, which includes eating rice, soup, various side dishes, and enjoying fermented foods, differs from Western practices. Some genetic traits related to nutrient metabolism also vary among population groups. Therefore, it is essential to establish evidence that reflects the genetic characteristics, dietary habits, and living environments of Koreans rather than directly applying findings from foreign studies.Importantly, the work begins after the research. Simply accumulating data and creating predictive models will not integrate precision nutrition into the lives of citizens. For research findings to translate into chronic disease management, food and meal service sectors, and digital health services, a national policy and implementation system that connects these areas is necessary. This includes standardizing data, establishing a personal information protection system, and developing scientific bases and utilization standards for services.Precision nutrition does not replace existing healthy eating guidelines; rather, it adds a layer of individual differences to them. For precision nutrition to take root in the lives of citizens, everyone must be able to trust and utilize dietary information tailored to their health status and lifestyle. We must now prepare to move beyond the age-old question of What should I eat to be healthy? to answer What should I eat to be healthy for me?* This article has been translated by AI. August 12, 2026 18:
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CMG Pharmaceutical to Address Management Risk with 10-for-1 Stock Consolidation CMG Pharmaceutical is moving forward with a 10-for-1 stock consolidation to alleviate concerns about being designated as a management risk.On August 12, CMG Pharmaceutical announced that it plans to hold an extraordinary general meeting on September 2 to vote on a proposal to consolidate ten common shares with a par value of 500 won into one common share with a par value of 5,000 won.If the stock consolidation is approved, trading will be suspended from October 1 to October 26, with the consolidated shares expected to be listed again on October 27.CMG Pharmaceutical has received a warning from the Korea Exchange regarding management risk after its stock price remained below 1,000 won for 25 consecutive trading days.According to current KOSDAQ regulations, a company is designated as a management risk if its common stock closes below 1,000 won for 30 consecutive trading days. As of August 5, CMG Pharmaceutical recorded 25 consecutive days below this threshold. If the stock price does not recover in the next five trading days, the company faces the risk of being designated as a management risk.In response, CMG Pharmaceutical aims to secure an appropriate number of outstanding shares and create a stable trading foundation through the stock consolidation. The total number of issued shares will decrease from 148,123,556 before the consolidation to 14,812,355 after, while the market capitalization and shareholder equity will remain unchanged.Alongside the stock consolidation, CMG Pharmaceutical plans to enhance its business competitiveness and increase corporate value through ongoing research and development (R&D), expansion of new products, and external business partnerships.In the field of new drugs, the company is accelerating the development of three small-molecule drugs: a next-generation lung cancer treatment, an osteoarthritis treatment, and a new mechanism hair loss treatment. In the formulation sector, it aims to strengthen product competitiveness focusing on combination drugs and improved new drugs.In the area of orally dissolving films (OSF), CMG Pharmaceutical is pursuing the commercialization of products utilizing its proprietary formulation technology both domestically and internationally, and plans to expand its prescription drug business.Lee Joo-hyung, CEO of CMG Pharmaceutical, stated, This stock consolidation is a measure to secure an appropriate number of outstanding shares and create a stable trading foundation. We will strengthen our business competitiveness and profitability to achieve tangible management results.Meanwhile, CMG Pharmaceutical, along with several other KOSDAQ biotech companies such as Abion, Lab Genomics, Noeul, Chaperon, and Moa Life Plus, has received warnings about management risk after their common stock prices fell below 1,000 won for 25 consecutive trading days.Since the implementation of the penny stock exit system promoted by financial authorities, there has been a surge in warnings about management risk, prompting pharmaceutical and biotech companies to take urgent measures to defend their stock prices and pursue stock consolidations.* This article has been translated by AI. August 12, 2026 17:
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Yuhan Corporation Concludes 'Yoo Il-han Academy 2026' to Foster Future Healthcare Talent Yuhan Corporation has completed its youth healthcare social innovation program, Yoo Il-han Academy 2026.The company announced on August 12 that it held a performance sharing event and graduation ceremony for Yoo Il-han Academy 2026 at the Yuhan Corporation Willow House News Square, aimed at inheriting the entrepreneurial spirit of its founder, Dr. Yoo Il-han.This event was organized to share the results of a project-based learning (N-PBL) course that took place over five weeks, starting on July 9.During the presentation, six groups participated, showcasing solutions to healthcare and welfare issues, including a sleep health management app for the 2030 generation, a project to verify the authenticity of obesity treatment advertisements, a guidebook for patients with rare diseases, a voice medication platform activated by NFC tags, an AI-based podcast service for elderly individuals living alone in the metropolitan area, and a medication information connection platform.Before the graduation ceremony, Noh Yeon-hong, president of the Korea Pharmaceutical and Bio-Pharma Manufacturers Association, delivered a special lecture on The Present and Future of the Pharmaceutical and Bio-Pharma Sector. He emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent to lead solutions to social issues in the healthcare and welfare fields.During the graduation ceremony, Yuhan Corporation CEO Cho Wook-je presented certificates to 36 graduates. The group proposing the medication information connection platform Yaksun received the grand prize for their outstanding idea. The second prize went to the group that developed an app to verify exaggerated advertisements for obesity treatments, while the team proposing the NFC-based voice medication guidance service Yaktok received the excellence award.Participants analyzed social issues in the healthcare and welfare sectors and designed solutions through expert lectures, field visits, stakeholder interviews, and design thinking workshops over the five weeks. Yuhan Corporation employees also provided support in research and development (R&D), clinical trials, marketing, and mentoring.A Yuhan Corporation representative stated, Yoo Il-han Academy is a participatory talent development program where young people directly experience social issues and propose actionable solutions. We will continue to nurture future talent to drive innovation in the healthcare and welfare sectors and actively support the creation of social value by youth.Meanwhile, Yuhan Corporation continues to achieve excellent results in domestic and international environmental, social, and governance (ESG) evaluations. It received the highest rating of AA in Sustainbests 2026 First Half ESG Evaluation and ranked second among companies with assets over 2 trillion won in the ESG Best Companies 2026 First Half.* This article has been translated by AI. August 12, 2026 15: