Briefings
SK Hynix’s record quarter reinforces global AI investment despite volatility
AI memory demand, long-term customer contracts and hyperscaler spending point to continued infrastructure expansion
July 30, 2026
Foreign residents hold South Korea’s population flat as working-age base shrinks
Korean nationals fall for fifth year, working-age share drops below 70% for first time, men in their 20s decline 3.8%
July 29, 2026
South Korea plans for lower gas demand while preparing for higher LNG use
Seoul forecasts declining baseline consumption but keeps a higher planning scenario as AI demand remains uncertain
July 28, 2026
Chey Tae-won keeps control of SK despite 944 billion won divorce ruling
Cash settlement preserves SK ownership stability but shifts attention to leverage, governance and investor confidence
July 27, 2026
South Korea’s economy beats forecast as 3% growth moves within striking distance
Second-quarter GDP outpaced expectations, giving the Bank of Korea more room to tighten policy against inflation
July 24, 2026
Court ruling leaves Seoul mayor Oh Se-hoon’s political future in doubt
The first-instance conviction raises the prospect of leadership change in Seoul while appeals keep Oh in office for now
July 23, 2026
South Korea’s energy security faces renewed test as Middle East conflict widens
Seoul has secured crude supplies, but renewed fighting, higher inflation and Houthi threats could raise economic costs
July 22, 2026
South Korea banks brace for rising SME borrowing as household credit tightens
BOK survey points to strong demand for business and unsecured loans even as lenders remain cautious on household credit
July 21, 2026
South Korea begins biggest overhaul of the won since the Asian financial crisis
The roadmap would allow offshore won trading and settlement around the clock, reshaping foreign access to Korean markets
July 20, 2026
South Korea tightens single-stock leverage rules after rapid market surge
Financial regulator raises cash deposits, freezes new listings, signals tougher approach to retail financial innovation
July 17, 2026
