Korea Daily News (November 25, 2024)

Politics

  • Yoon Suk-yeol’s Approval Rating Rises: President Yoon’s approval rating increased for the second consecutive week, reaching the mid-20% range. Both ruling and opposition parties saw a decline in support.
  • Clash Between Kim Min-jeon and Party Leader Han: Rising tension within the ruling party as pro-Yoon faction increases pressure, leading to a heated exchange during a public meeting.
  • Korea-Japan Energy Cooperation: Korea’s and Japan’s chambers of commerce agreed to strengthen economic collaboration in energy and advanced technology sectors.
  • Russia Warns Korea: Russia issued a strong warning against South Korea supplying lethal weapons to Ukraine.

 

Society

  • Women’s Violence Prevention Week Ceremony: Individuals dedicated to aiding sexual violence victims were honored with Prime Minister’s awards.
  • Reconstruction of “Memory Space”: The comfort women memorial park is set to reopen next spring.
  • Ruling Against Unjust Dismissal for Maternity Leave: The court ruled that terminating an employee’s contract due to maternity leave constitutes unfair dismissal.
  • Preparing for a Super-Aged Society: Maeil Business Newspaper highlighted issues through interviews with senior citizens as Korea approaches a super-aged society.

 

Economy

  • Samsung Electronics Stock Surge: Shares climbed following news of NVIDIA CEO approving AI memory chip supplies.
  • LG Uplus Stock Buyback Praised: Target price was raised to 15,000 KRW due to its shareholder-friendly policies.
  • Rising Interest in Gold Investment: A surge in gold prices has renewed public interest in gold-related investments.
  • China’s Visa-Free Stay Extension: China’s extension of visa-free stay for South Koreans has boosted travel-related stocks.
  • Increased Interest in Dividend Stocks: Amid economic uncertainties, investors are turning to stable dividend stocks.

 

Technology/IT

  • AI-Powered Brokerage Management System: Butok showcased its real-time property management platform at the 2024 Urban Innovation Expo.
  • Neowiz Earns ISMS-P Certification: Recognized for its top-level security and privacy management systems.
  • Upbit Reimburses Voice Phishing Victims: The platform refunded KRW 8.5 billion to 380 victims of fraudulent transactions.
  • Bithumb Enhances Investor Protection: Strengthened measures to prevent unfair trading and bolster user protections.

 

International

  • Ukraine-North Korea Military Clash: Ukrainian forces reportedly engaged with North Korean troops on the Kursk front.
  • China Extends Visa-Free Stay for South Koreans: The visa-free period increases from 15 to 30 days, boosting related stocks.
  • Russia Warns of Retaliation: Russia threatens action if South Korea provides weapons to Ukraine.
  • BYD Enters Korean EV Market: The Chinese EV leader plans to launch affordable models in Korea by early next year.
  • Expanding Electric Vehicle Usage in China: The Guangdong region sees significant growth in EV adoption.

 

Culture

  • Praise for ‘Jeongnyeoni’ Finale: Actor Jung Eun-chae’s portrayal of a 1950s stage artist received acclaim.
  • ATEEZ Tops Billboard: Their 11th mini-album achieved the group’s second No. 1 on the Billboard charts.
  • MAMA Awards Held in the U.S.: Korea’s iconic K-pop awards ceremony marked its first event in the United States.
  • Cho Yong-pil’s Farewell Concert: The legendary singer attracted fans of all ages to his final regular album concert.
  • Blackpink Rosé’s Interview: The artist discussed K-pop trainee culture and her upcoming solo album with The New York Times.

 

Environment

  • Ice Fishing Festival Canceled: Environmental concerns led to the cancellation of the annual ice fishing festival in Inje County.
  • Stable Air Quality: Most regions reported moderate air quality levels.
  • Plans for Carbon Reduction: The Ministry of Environment announced new greenhouse gas reduction targets for 2025.
  • Climate Change Effects on Jeju Island: Rising temperatures have caused noticeable ecological shifts.

 

Real Estate/Construction

  • Gangnam Redevelopment Speeds Up: A 2,340-unit reconstruction project in Gaepo accelerates its timeline.
  • Investment Properties Recommended: Highlighting lucrative options in Pyeongtaek and Yongin.
  • Pohang Supports East Sea Gas Project: The Yeongilman Port will serve as a supplementary hub for the major gas drilling project.
  • Major Office Developments in Seoul: Investments in 50 billion KRW office projects are active in Seoul’s Gangnam district.

 

Finance

  • Rising Interest in Dividend Stocks: Investors prioritize dividend stocks amid declining market indexes.
  • Koramco Life Infra REITs Special Dividends Announced: Annualized yield reaches 11%, attracting attention.
  • Hanwha Investment Strengthens Services: Introduced automated documentation issuance and review features.
  • DB Financial Rates Kyochon Favorably: Maintained a “buy” rating with a target price of 15,000 KRW due to steady sales growth.

 

Industry

  • Hyundai Supports Pediatric Cancer Patients: Raised funds through excellent sales representatives to support affected children.
  • K-Food Catering Expands Globally: Korean food service companies rapidly grow in Hungary and the U.S.
  • Hyundai Capital Launches in Australia: Offering financial products and services tailored for local customers.
  • Samyang Group Restructures: Shifts focus on specialty chemical products under fourth-generation leadership.

 

Games

  • Dungeon & Fighter Midseason Update Announced: Enthusiastic reception for new content and job classes.
  • Nirvanana Secures Series A Funding: Focuses on developing the PvP game ‘ZETA.’
  • Nexon’s Super Vibe Gaining Popularity: Celebrated with events and collaborations in Seoul’s Seongsu-dong.
  • Blue Archive 3rd Anniversary Event: Offline celebrations drew passionate fans.
  • Riot Games Hosts Arcane Fan Fest: Marked the second season finale of the animated series with events in Seoul.

 

Health/Medical

  • Court Ruling on Patient Rejection: Medical institutions penalized for refusing emergency patients.
  • National Medical Center Expansion: Plans for a new facility to strengthen healthcare infrastructure.
  • Winter Infectious Disease Advisory: Emphasis on flu vaccinations and personal hygiene practices.