KOSPI Faces Dual Challenges of Low Trading Volume and Volatility
The South Korean stock market is grappling with extreme volatility and a significant drop in trading activity. Throughout August, the KOSPI has experienced a 'rollercoaster' pattern, with sharp declines and surges occurring almost daily. Investor sentiment has cooled dramatically, leading to average daily trading volumes and values hitting their lowest levels of the year. Both foreign and domestic investors have remained on the sidelines, failing to engage in active buying, which has left the ma
Tax Burden Disparities May Widen Despite Government's Tax Reform
The government plans to eliminate the differential tax rates for the comprehensive real estate tax based on the number of homes owned, shifting the tax system to focus on property value. However, some experts warn that this reform could actually increase the tax burden gap between single-home and multi-home owners in certain price brackets.According to reports from Yonhap News and others, the current comprehensive real estate tax applies different rates based on the number of properties owned. A
SK D&D Initiates Major Capital Increase to Secure Financial Stability
SK D&D has launched a large-scale capital increase to secure financial stability, just one year after its governance structure changed from a subsidiary of the SK Group to a private equity fund.According to a disclosure on August 9, SK D&D's board approved a shareholder allocation capital increase of 136.7 billion won on July 28. However, the Financial Supervisory Service has halted the process by requesting corrections to the securities registration statement.The funds raised will be used to re
Stock Trading Volume Drops, Yet Retail Investors Continue Buying Amid Debt Concerns
The KOSPI has experienced significant fluctuations, leading to a sharp decline in trading volume and value in the domestic stock market. As the market has seen wild swings, investor sentiment has turned cautious. Retail investors continue to buy, absorbing foreign sell-offs, but there is a noticeable decrease in leveraged investments, with a shift towards cash-based strategies.According to the Korea Exchange, the average daily trading volume for the Korean stock market (including KOSPI, KOSDAQ,
National Tax Service Extends Tax Deadlines for Residents Affected by Heavy Rain in Andong and Uiseong
In response to the heavy rain last month, which led to the designation of Andong and Uiseong in North Gyeongsang Province as special disaster areas, the National Tax Service (NTS) has announced tax relief measures for affected taxpayers.The NTS has set up a dedicated support window for flood-affected taxpayers at the Andong Tax Office and will provide tax relief specifically for residents in the Namseon, Iljik, and Imhae-myeon areas of Andong, as well as Danchon-myeon in Uiseong.Taxpayers residi
Pharmaceutical Companies Focus on Easier-to-Take Medications
Pharmaceutical companies are accelerating improvements in medication formulations with a focus on convenience. As differentiating solely based on efficacy becomes challenging, companies are strategizing to enhance usability through smaller pill sizes and easier administration methods.According to the Food and Drug Safety Administration's '2025 Drug Approval Report' released on August 9, among the 248 submitted medications, the highest number was new formulation drugs (68), followed by new dosage
So Ji-sub Discusses Success of 'Kim Manager' and Team Effort
SBS's drama 'Kim Manager' has created a sensation, achieving an impressive viewership rating of 23%. At the center of this success is actor So Ji-sub, who plays the role of 'Kim Manager,' a former special agent turned employee at a small savings bank, adapted from a popular Naver webtoon. "Honestly, it feels like I'm being pranked in a surprise camera situation. I'm overwhelmed by the immense love and support, and I wonder if this is really happening. Of course, I would love to see a Season 2,
Nonghyup to Invest 300 Billion Won Amid Heatwave and Drought
As heatwaves and droughts persist across the country, Nonghyup has decided to urgently allocate 300 billion won in disaster funds. The organization aims to respond comprehensively to prevent damage to crops and livestock and to protect farmers from heat-related illnesses.According to Nonghyup on August 9, the organization will provide 300 billion won in disaster funds to support farmers affected by the heat and drought. Emergency watering support will be provided to 3,693 vulnerable farms throug
Korean Won Falls to 1400 Against Dollar: Will Strength Continue?
The won-dollar exchange rate has rapidly fallen to the 1400 won level, raising questions about whether the won will continue to strengthen. While the influx of dollars due to corporate tax payments could lead to further declines, experts predict a rebound if the supply of dollars is exhausted.According to the Seoul foreign exchange market on August 9, the exchange rate closed at 1409.5 won per dollar on the morning of August 8. During the day, it hit a low of 1407.3 won, marking the lowest level
Major Automaker Unions Resume Strikes After Summer Break
Unions representing major automakers are set to resume strikes following their summer break. Hyundai Motor and Kia are among the companies where negotiations, which had paused during the summer vacation, will soon restart.According to industry sources, the Hyundai union will hold a Central Negotiation Committee meeting on August 11 to discuss their future strategies. Key topics for discussion will include the possibility and intensity of additional strikes.This year, the Hyundai union has alread