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President Lee Jae-myung's administration is set to launch a comprehensive economic stimulus program on July 21, targeting the revival of Korea's struggling traditional markets and local businesses. A Bold Economic Recovery Initiative President Lee Jae-myung took to Facebook on July 12 to emphasize the importance of revitalizing neighborhood commercial districts, stating that "when local markets thrive, the economy thrives." The President strongly advocated for the successful implementation of the People's Recovery Consumption Coupon policy, expressing his commitment to fostering economic virtuous cycles through increased domestic consumption. The government's People's Recovery Consumption Coupons represent a large-scale domestic demand stimulation policy, providing a minimum of 150,000 won (approximately $115 USD) per person to all Korean citizens. This policy is considered a ...

Government Mobilizes Comprehensive Measures for Economic Recovery The Korean government has announced the imminent launch of its "Consumer Recovery Coupon" program, positioning it as a crucial catalyst for overcoming the nation's economic challenges. During the Lee Jae-myung administration's first National Policy Coordination Meeting, officials outlined comprehensive measures to stabilize consumer prices and revitalize the domestic economy. Beyond Simple Stimulus: A Structural Recovery Approach Government officials emphasized that the Consumer Recovery Coupon represents more than a one-time support measure. The policy is designed as a comprehensive strategy to drive recovery across Korea's economic structure, with particular focus on benefiting neighborhood commercial districts and small business owners who form the backbone of the domestic economy. Professor Lee Jun...

Bitcoin has shattered the $113,000 barrier to reach new all-time highs, while Korea's stock market continues its upward momentum toward the government's KOSPI 5000 target, creating unprecedented investment enthusiasm. Bitcoin Crowned Year's Best Performing Asset According to Bank of America's latest research report, Bitcoin has emerged as the best-performing asset among global currencies since the beginning of 2025. The cryptocurrency broke through $113,000 at 5:41 PM Eastern Time on cryptocurrency exchanges, marking another milestone in its record-breaking rally. CoinGlass data reveals that approximately 800 billion won ($600 million) worth of short positions were liquidated in the past 24 hours, demonstrating the massive losses suffered by investors who bet against Bitcoin's rise. Cryptocurrency experts attribute Bitcoin's surge to "a combination of continue...

The Lee Jae-myung administration has launched a comprehensive campaign to achieve 3% potential growth rate recovery through fundamental economic restructuring, with artificial intelligence innovation at its core. OECD's Shocking Projections Spark Action Following the OECD's downward revision of Korea's potential growth rate to 1.9% and projections of a potential drop to zero percent by 2040, the Lee Jae-myung government has initiated aggressive countermeasures. The National Planning Committee has established a dedicated task force comprising the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Bank of Korea to develop concrete response strategies. The OECD's latest report estimated Korea's 2025 potential growth rate at 1.9%, significantly below the government's 3% target. This figure reveals structural limitations in the Korean economy and represents a wake-up call for policymakers. ...

Hello! Have you heard of the 'Topping Economy'? This innovative trend currently shaking up global consumer markets in 2025 is completely transforming our consumption patterns. Today, let's dive deep into everything about the topping economy, where personality and personalization have become new economic drivers! What is the Topping Economy? The 'Topping Economy' refers to a consumption method where consumers can choose additional elements that reflect their personal tastes and individuality on basic products. Just like adding desired toppings to pizza, it's an economic phenomenon where consumers actively customize products to create their own unique value. Why the Topping Economy is Exploding in 2025 1. Gen Z and Gen Alpha's Pursuit of Individuality Young generations want to express 'a me that's different from others.' The...

Professor Kim Nan-do's team has once again released "Trend Korea 2025"! In the Year of the Blue Snake 2025, what consumer patterns and lifestyle changes will we encounter? In an era of sluggish economic conditions, we need snake-like sharp senses to seize opportunities. SNAKE SENSE - An Era Requiring Snake-Like Sensitivity The keyword for 2025 is "SNAKE SENSE." Professor Kim Nan-do emphasized that "as continued economic stagnation is expected, snake-like sensitive perception is necessary." Now, focusing on details rather than big hits will be the key to survival and growth. 10 Major Trend Keywords for 2025 1. Omnivore - The Emergence of Omnivorous Consumers Modern consumers who freely consume according to their own tastes without being bound by specific trends or groups. Centered on Generation MZ, the phenomenon of pursuing individual unique tastes while breaking down existing classifications and boundaries is accelerating. For example, ...

US President Donald Trump officially notified South Korea on July 7th (local time) that he would impose a 25% reciprocal tariff on all Korean products starting August 1st. This measure comes after trade negotiations between the US and South Korea, which have been ongoing since April, failed to reach a conclusion, and is expected to have significant impact on the Korean economy and export industries. Key Details of Trump's Tariff Letter President Trump released a letter addressed to President Lee Jae-myung through his social media platform Truth Social. In the letter, Trump stated, "Our relationship has unfortunately been far from reciprocal," and announced that "starting August 1, 2025, we will impose a 25% tariff on all Korean products coming to the United States." This tariff rate is identical to the 25% reciprocal tariff announced by President Trump on April 2nd. While Korea had received a 90-day grace period to conduct negotiations, the failure to rea...

The NASDAQ Composite Index closed mixed on July 10th amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding President Trump's tariff policies, with investors maintaining a cautious stance as market volatility continues to reflect policy-driven concerns. Trump Tariff Policy Creates Market Turbulence President Donald Trump's announcement of imposing tariffs of up to 40% on 14 countries, including Japan and South Korea, has created significant volatility in U.S. equity markets. Technology stocks listed on NASDAQ are particularly vulnerable to these trade policy changes, given their global supply chain dependencies and export exposure. Citigroup strategists led by Chris Montagu warned that NASDAQ positioning has become excessively extended, increasing the risk of profit-taking activities. This warning comes at a time when valuation concerns for the tech-heavy index are already mounting. Mutual Tariff Extension Provides Limited Relief The Trump administration's decision to extend the ...

Bitcoin recently touched the $110,000 milestone before entering a correction phase, currently hovering around the $109,000 level as market participants navigate through complex factors influencing the world's largest cryptocurrency. Trump Tariff Policy Creates Market Uncertainty The primary concern weighing on Bitcoin's price momentum stems from President Trump's evolving tariff policies. The administration recently announced plans to impose tariffs of up to 40% on 14 countries, including Japan and South Korea, before extending the mutual tariff deadline to August 1st. According to cryptocurrency media outlet AMB Crypto, this policy uncertainty has triggered risk-aversion among investors, leading to capital outflows from cryptocurrency markets. Exchange Inflow Decline Signals Bullish Sentiment Despite current headwinds, several on-chain metrics suggest Bitcoin's underlying strength. The Exchange Flow Multiple has significantly decreased over the past two wee...

Labor and management representatives are engaged in fierce conflict over the 2026 minimum wage determination, with the Minimum Wage Council set to make its decision on July 10th. While management advocates for a freeze, labor demands substantial increases, creating a tense standoff. Current Minimum Wage Council Deliberations The Minimum Wage Council has conducted three meetings to discuss next year's minimum wage. The current minimum wage stands at 10,030 won per hour, with next year's rate expected to be determined between 10,210 won and 10,440 won. The council consists of 27 members: 9 worker representatives, 9 employer representatives, and 9 public interest representatives. The council comprehensively considers workers' cost of living, wages of similar workers, labor productivity, and income distribution rates when determining the minimum wage. Management Position: Freeze and Differential Application Management strongly advocates for freezing the minimum wage, ci...

South Korea is experiencing its most severe July heatwave in 117 years, with temperatures reaching over 40°C and electricity consumption hitting record highs nationwide, triggering widespread economic disruptions. Record-Breaking Temperatures Scorch Nation According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, Paju and Gwangmyeong recorded temperatures of 40.1°C and 40.2°C respectively on July 8th, marking the first time this year that temperatures have exceeded 40°C. Seoul also reached 37.1°C, setting a new July temperature record since weather recordings began 117 years ago. The extreme heat has affected 68 out of 153 weather stations nationwide, with heat wave warnings issued across major metropolitan areas including Gangnam (38.7°C), Jongno (38.2°C), and Dongjak (39°C) districts in Seoul. Meteorologists attribute this unprecedented heatwave to the simultaneous influence of the North Pacific High and continental high-pressure systems covering the Korean Peninsula. Weather off...

Divergent Views on New Government Policy Since the inauguration of the Lee Jae-myung administration, concerns and expectations regarding real estate policy are intersecting. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon expressed concerns about the new government real estate policy, while former lawmaker Park Yong-jin offered positive evaluations. Seoul Mayor Warning Mayor Oh Se-hoon stated concerns about whether real estate prices can be controlled if money supply is increased in the market under the pretext of stimulating the economy. He emphasized the need for a cautious approach based on past experience that house prices rise when money is released even with regulations. Economic Target Concerns Some analysts suggest that the new government is excessively intervening in the real estate market due to the economic goal of KOSPI 5000. There are concerns that expanding money supply for economic sti...

The New Gold Rush: AI Talent Information technology companies are engaging in an unprecedented battle to secure artificial intelligence talent. While research and development investment was once the key indicator of corporate innovation, AI technology itself has now become a matter of corporate survival. Silicon Valley Salary Wars According to Bloomberg reports, global IT companies centered in Silicon Valley are offering astronomical salaries and stock options to recruit AI specialists. The market value of professionals with core AI technologies such as machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing has skyrocketed beyond imagination. Industry Sources Reveal Shocking Figures An industry insider remarked that people dont realize how little their current company salary is compared to what AI talent can command in todays market. Major tech giants like Google, M...

Trump Tariff Ultimatum President Donald Trump has sent an official letter to Korea announcing a 25% mutual tariff on all Korean imports, scheduled to take effect on August 1st. This development marks a significant escalation in US trade policy, affecting Korea along with Japan and at least 12 other countries. Extended Deadline Provides Breathing Room The tariff implementation date was extended from the original July 9th deadline to August 1st, providing Korea with approximately three weeks to negotiate. Trump stated that the 25% rate is actually a low number considering the trade deficit the US has experienced with Korea. Korean Government Response The Korean presidential office assessed that they had avoided the worst-case scenario in tariff negotiations. Policy Chief Kim Yong-beom emphasized that while prompt consultation is important, protecting national interests remains ...

President Donald Trump has sent tariff warning letters to major countries including South Korea, announcing a 25% tariff to be imposed starting in August. This trade policy shock is creating ripple effects across the global economy, raising concerns about its impact on South Korea. Economic Ripple Effects Trump's tariff policy extends beyond simple trade conflicts, potentially leading to global inflation deterioration and upward pressure on interest rates. Experts warn that "tariff increases by the hegemonic United States will reduce global trade volumes, leading to GDP decline and economic growth slowdown." The strengthening dollar is intensifying won weakness. The won-dollar exchange rate rose to 1,370 won during Tuesday trading, showing instability. The Bank of Korea's New York office has suggested that the tariff policy's impact on the US economy may be prolonged. Corporate Response Strategies Korean companies are already reviewing various counterm...

LG Electronics announced a dramatic 46% decline in second-quarter operating profit to 639.1 billion won ($491 million) compared to the same period last year, as the South Korean tech giant grappled with intensifying U.S. trade policies and weakening global consumer demand. Despite revenue growth, mounting operational challenges have significantly impacted the company's profitability across key business segments. Revenue Growth Masks Profit Decline While LG Electronics achieved revenue growth of 8.3% year-over-year to 21.7 trillion won in the second quarter, the sharp profit decline reflects the complex challenges facing global appliance manufacturers. The company attributed the disappointing performance to increased tariff burdens in key markets and widespread consumer hesitancy to make major appliance purchases. The Home Appliance & Air Solution (H&A) division, traditionally LG's profit engine, experienced the most severe impact. Sales of major appliances incl...

In July 2025, Donald Trump's announcement of a 25% reciprocal tariff on South Korean goods has sent shockwaves through the Korean economy and global markets. This tariff is part of a massive trade war affecting 183 countries worldwide, representing one of the most significant trade policy shifts in recent history. Understanding the implications and response strategies is crucial for businesses, investors, and policymakers. 🔥 Understanding Trump's Reciprocal Tariffs Reciprocal tariffs are Trump administration's response to what they perceive as "unfair trade advantages" taken by various countries in their trade relationships with the United States. The tariff rates are calculated based on the US trade deficit with each nation, reflecting Trump's core belief that trade deficits represent American losses. 💡 2025 Reciprocal Tariff Overview Country Tariff Rate Effective Date ...

Bitcoin Surges Back Above $105,000 Level July 7, 2025, marked a dramatic turnaround for Bitcoin as the world's largest cryptocurrency staged a remarkable V-shaped recovery, climbing back above the $105,000 level. This surge came after a sharp decline the previous day, with the recovery driven by growing expectations surrounding President Trump's anticipated new tax legislation framework. The cryptocurrency market witnessed a significant spike in liquidity across digital assets over the past 24 hours, with Bitcoin leading the charge. Market analysts attribute this sudden reversal to a combination of political developments and economic news emanating from the United States, particularly speculation about the Trump administration's forthcoming tax policy reforms. Trump Administration's Crypto-Friendly Stance Since taking office in January 2025, the Trump administration has consistently pursued policies favorable to the cryptocurrency industry. The administrati...

President Lee Jae-myung's approval rating is approaching the significant 70% threshold, drawing considerable attention from political circles and demonstrating the growing public confidence in his administration. According to a recent poll commissioned by Energy Economy and conducted by Realmeter from June 30 to July 4, targeting 2,508 adults nationwide, President Lee's approval rating reached 67.7%. Rising Economic Optimism Drives Support This figure represents a notable increase from previous weeks, reflecting the continued upward trajectory of the president's political standing since taking office. The survey reveals that public trust in Lee's governance and optimism about the nation's economic prospects have become increasingly evident. A particularly striking finding from the poll shows that 67.7% of respondents believe "South Korea's economy will develop during President Lee's term." This response sugg...