Defense & Safety: Five workers died and two were injured after an explosion and fire on a rocket-propellant production line at Hanwha Aerospace’s Daejeon plant; Hanwha CEO Son Jae-il apologized and pledged full cooperation as authorities investigate. Trade & Chips: South Korea’s exports hit a record $87.75–$87.8B in May (+53% y/y), driven by a semiconductor surge (chips +169% y/y), lifting the trade surplus to about $26.95B. AI & Markets: KOSPI surged to fresh highs as investors bet on AI momentum and Nvidia-linked cooperation talks; Korea Exchange will also roll out weekly options on Samsung, SK hynix, Hyundai Motor and LG Energy Solution starting June 29. Semiconductor Supply Chain: Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is set to visit Korea this week, with industry focus on AI/robotics partnerships; separately, Huang confirmed Vera Rubin is in full production, with Korean HBM suppliers Samsung and SK hynix in the mix. Defense Tech: DAPA says South Korea has localized the laser oscillator for the “Cheongwang” laser air-defense weapon, enabling mass production with domestically made components. Cyber Policy: The science and ICT ministry unveiled a private-sector cybersecurity strategy aimed at AI-driven threats. Korea-Africa Business: Seoul hosted its first ministerial meeting with 50 African countries on joint responses to global challenges, with President Lee set to meet ministerial delegates. Energy & Geopolitics: Oil jumped as US-Iran strikes and ceasefire talks stayed uncertain, while Asian stocks leaned on AI demand despite Gulf risk. Consumer/Platform Oversight: Seoul city findings say 55% of users reported losses from overseas lodging platforms, pushing for tighter oversight of pricing and refund practices.