Politics | Supply Chain Alliance Emphasis vs. Political Infighting, and the U.S.–Korea Investment Discrepancy
Ahead of his first Korea–China summit on November 1, President Lee Jae-myeong emphasized the expansion of supply chain and cultural cooperation, expressing optimism about lifting China’s cultural import ban in an interview with Xinhua News Agency.
While his remark that “China is a partner in prosperity” sounded diplomatically friendly, questions have been raised over whether such a stance aligns with a national-interest-centered foreign policy, as the global supply chain is shifting away from China.
As the U.S., Japan, and Taiwan strengthen cooperation in semiconductors and AI, Korea is seen as still caught in a so-called “balanced diplomacy,” or playing both sides.
The recent parliamentary audit turned into chaos, filled with shouting and personal attacks instead of policy discussion.
Hearings involving Chief Justice nominee Cho Hee-dae, the kidnapping of a Korean national in Cambodia, and U.S.–Korea tariff disputes contributed to the turmoil, drawing criticism that both ruling and opposition parties are prioritizing political fights over public welfare.
A new controversy has also emerged over discrepancies in U.S.–Korea investment figures.
The Korean presidential office announced during the APEC meeting that “the U.S. has pledged $50 billion (about 70 trillion won) in new investments in Korea’s semiconductor and battery sectors.”
However, the official White House statement only mentioned that “U.S. companies are considering expanding investments in Korea by about $15 billion.”
This represents more than a threefold gap between the two sides.
Economists and diplomatic experts pointed out that “a pledge and a consideration are not the same,” accusing the Korean government of exaggerating results for domestic political gain.
Conservative circles criticized the move as “numbers diplomacy for domestic publicity,” arguing that “the government is focusing on image-driven diplomacy rather than trust-based engagement.”
In response, the presidential office explained that “the difference stems from confidential, ongoing negotiations between corporations,” but observers warn the issue could undermine long-term trust between Seoul and Washington.
Ruling party leader Jang Dong-hyuk vowed to introduce legislation to “balance the so-called Yellow Envelope Law and protect employers’ defense rights,” emphasizing the need to support small business owners and maintain labor–management equilibrium.
He reiterated, “When companies collapse, jobs disappear.”
Meanwhile, the Overseas Korean Youth Program drew positive attention, allowing young Koreans abroad to reconnect with their heritage while developing a global perspective.
Overall, diplomacy remains focused on publicity, while domestic politics are mired in conflict.
Although Korea stood out during APEC, the conflicting U.S.–Korea investment announcements left a dent in mutual credibility.
Real national interest lies not in competing numbers but in restoring trust—a lesson this administration should take seriously.
Economy | KOSPI Nears 4,000 as Semiconductor, Auto, and Energy Sectors Surge
Major KOSPI-listed firms are showing sharp earnings growth.
SK Hynix’s operating profit is projected to rise 46% in Q1 next year, while Samsung Electronics expects a 30% increase, pushing its target share price to 150,000 won.
Investor sentiment remains bullish, with some saying, “A 100 million won investment has yielded 70 million won in gains.”
With a 15% reduction in auto tariffs, Hyundai Motor’s losses could decrease by up to 3 trillion won.
Asia-Pacific energy firms are strengthening energy security by signing long-term LNG partnerships with U.S. suppliers.
The government is also discussing revisions to the system linking supply prices to raw material costs for small and mid-sized companies.
In real estate, demand for public housing remains strong, with subscription competition ratios soaring—Dongtan recorded 100:1.
Regional living wages rose 3%, reaching 11,701 won per hour in South Gyeongsang Province.
In cryptocurrency markets, stablecoin trading volume surged amid escalating U.S.–China tensions, signaling renewed investor confidence.
Overall, economic sentiment is optimistic, with clear signs of improving investment appetite.
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Society | Cambodia Kidnapping Shock and Bold Birth Incentives
A shocking incident involving a Korean national kidnapped, tortured, and killed by a Cambodian voice phishing ring has sparked nationwide outrage.
The 20-year-old prime suspect was sentenced to 10 years in prison, and Korean police have launched a full investigation into related criminal networks.
Meanwhile, companies are unveiling unprecedented incentives to tackle low birth rates.
Some major firms are now offering up to 100 million won in cash for childbirth, and others are following suit.
The Korea Federation of SMEs called for revisions to the Yellow Envelope Law, arguing it imposes excessive burdens on employers.
Local governments such as Ulsan are expanding grants for women-friendly companies up to 5 million won.
Public health campaigns promoting early detection of diabetes and kidney disease are spreading,
while cultural events like the “Ghost Commute” pop-up store and the Summoners War Championship 2025 World Finals in Paris are drawing large crowds.
Korean society continues to see a mix of dark and hopeful developments—tragic crimes on one hand, but encouraging progress in family and cultural initiatives on the other.
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Entertainment | A Scandal-Free Day as Games and Exhibitions Take Center Stage
Pearl Abyss is running its “Crimson Desert X AMD” pop-up store in Hongdae until November 1.
Kakao Games has launched a new league for Path of Exile, while Com2uS opened the Summoners War World Finals in Paris.
The NC Cultural Foundation also opened its exhibition “A Day in Need of Warmth” (Nov. 1–Dec. 28), featuring 8-year-old picture book artist Jeon Yi-soo.
The entertainment scene remains calm, with cultural and gaming news taking the spotlight instead of scandals.
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Miscellaneous | AI Copyright Lawsuit Looms, NIS Fire Recovery Underway
Naver faces criticism for allegedly using news content without permission to train AI models, prompting media groups to prepare lawsuits worth hundreds of billions of won.
A fire at the National Intelligence Service temporarily halted some government administrative services.
The Ministry of Environment conducted field inspections of decarbonization industries in Ulsan,
while Busan launched a free “Mobile Intangible Heritage Playground” program.
Heavy traffic is expected on expressways this weekend as the autumn foliage season peaks.
Environment Minister Kim Sung-hwan visited Ulsan to hear on-site concerns from green industry workers.
It has been a week where technology, culture, and administrative issues have all intertwined.
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Weather | Light Morning Rain Followed by Clear Skies, Ideal for Weekend Outings
Light rain of about 5mm is expected in the morning, followed by clear skies in the afternoon.
Morning lows will range from 7 to 20°C, bringing mild and pleasant conditions.
Jeju and northern Gangwon may see early showers, and Busan and the eastern coast of North Gyeongsang could experience scattered drizzle.
With autumn foliage at its peak, expressway congestion is likely, but overall, the weekend is expected to be bright and ideal for outdoor activities.
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