Chip Credit Boost: Moody’s upgraded SK Hynix to A3+ (stable), completing a rare three-agency credit sweep as AI-driven memory demand keeps strengthening balance sheets. Heat & Retail Logistics: Korea hit a new national record of 41.8°C, and retailers are seeing a surge in delivery orders plus cooling goods as people avoid going out. Tax Overhaul for Housing & Work: The 2026 tax reform shifts property taxes toward residence, easing burdens for single-home owner-occupiers but raising costs for multiple and non-owner homes—while also expanding the dual-income EITC and lifting youth rent support. Korean-Style IRA Incentives: A “Korean IRA” plan adds production-based tax credits for strategic sectors (EVs excluded) and introduces SMR support, with potential 30% share-value adjustments if “stock suppression” is detected. Defense Exports & Security Reform: South Korea launched a new counter-intelligence structure, while reporting highlights show systems like Cheongung-II gaining traction abroad. Crypto Market Governance: Bithumb set an IPO roadmap targeting 2028 after governance, K-IFRS, and internal control upgrades. AI Data Center Power Bottleneck: KEPCO’s grid impact assessment shows many data-center power applications still not cleared for supply, slowing regional AI expansion. Auto & Mobility Investment: Chery agreed to invest $75m in KG Mobility via convertible bonds, aiming for deeper manufacturing cooperation. Housing Redevelopment Watch: Jungnang-gu is pushing redevelopment and complex projects, including a “Moa Town” pilot area, as older districts seek a reset.