Semiconductor Exports Surge: South Korea hit a milestone as June exports jumped 70.9% to US$102.25bn, topping US$100bn for the first time, led by memory chips (up 199.5% to US$44.82bn) and supported by autos, petrochemicals and steel. AI Chip Capex Push: SK hynix plans 100tn won (US$64bn) for new NAND and packaging factories in Cheongju to expand memory output amid AI-driven demand, while Samsung and SK hynix also keep reviewing additional fab sites beyond the Seoul area. Regional Chip Talent Plan: Samsung and SK hynix are reportedly in talks with Seoul National University to fund company-sponsored semiconductor programs at regional universities, aiming to speed up workforce supply for the megaproject buildout. Labor-Saving Retail Tech: With labor shortages and rising costs, more Korean shops are turning to robots and self-service, including 24-hour unstaffed coffee and convenience-style formats. Steel Trade Shock: The EU cut South Korea’s tariff-free steel quota by 46%, prompting Seoul to push domestic demand via downstream links to shipbuilding, defense and renewables. Market Volatility Watch: Korea’s KOSPI slid sharply amid global tech jitters, with chip stocks hit hard as investors unwind AI-linked bets. Energy & Inflation Pressure: South Korea’s consumer inflation rose to a 30-month high in June, driven by fuel and energy costs tied to Middle East-related supply pressures. Robotics Showcase: RoboCup kicked off in Incheon for the first time, bringing AI robot competitions and industrial league events to the spotlight. Corporate Legal Moves: Yoon & Yang added public procurement and competition lawyers to strengthen its fair-trade and platform-sector capabilities. EV/Auto Curiosity: Polestar 4’s estate variant is being tested in the UK, with production plans still tied to South Korea’s manufacturing footprint.