Business & Economy
South Korea in August 2026: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from August 1 to 28, 2026, and key outlook for September 2026
August 31, 2026
South Korea’s game giants are quickly outgrowing the traditional export model
Foreign studios and acquisitions are changing how major Korean publishers create value as overseas revenue keeps rising
August 28, 2026
South Korea’s chip windfall brings second straight Bank of Korea rate hike
Central bank sees stronger consumption and persistent inflation as semiconductor income spreads through the economy
August 28, 2026
South Korea’s business sentiment climbs as chip boom widens policy dilemma
Stronger exporter confidence contrasts with weak domestic demand as central bank weighs whether to raise rates again
August 27, 2026
South Korea’s tourism boom faces a fresh test as China ties improve again
Record visitor arrivals are more diversified than a decade ago, but a firmer won and China’s return will test spending
August 26, 2026
Hyundai wage deal sets stage for South Korea’s next retirement age battle
Union wage protections could shape how companies respond to longer careers, youth hiring and automation after reform
August 26, 2026
US Treasury’s ‘zero-leakage’ Iran push creates fresh risks for South Korea
Korean firms face tighter screening and Hormuz exposure, while Washington’s strategy still depends heavily on China
August 25, 2026
South Korea’s job rebound masks weak hiring as fewer positions disappear
MODS data show first-quarter employment gains came mainly from lower job destruction as job creation barely improved
August 25, 2026
South Korea’s Arctic gamble could pay off even if the route stays niche
PanStar Acro’s pilot may matter most for shipbuilding, ports and expertise even if regular service stays limited
August 24, 2026
Future Response Fund would give Seoul more control over future tax windfalls
New mechanism would redirect part of tax booms into AI, regional growth, education and fiscal stabilization reserves
August 24, 2026
