Daily Briefing · 2026-10-01

However, the $54 billion Alaska LNG project remains uncertain, as the Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy stated it would be reviewed based on commercial rationality. Korea and the US also formalized a $120 billion framework for the construction of 8 nuclear reactors, but participating companies have yet to be determined for 6 of the 8 reactors. September exports hit an all-time high monthly record of $120.9 billion, surging 83.5% year-on-year, raising the likelihood of annual exports surpassing $1 trillion. Micron announced record-high quarterly revenue of 73.5 trillion won, driven by explosive demand for AI memory. Amid these positive developments, the KOSPI surged 1.95% to close at 6971.35, and the KOSDAQ rose 4.48%. However, the US 10-year Treasury yield hit 5.34%, its highest level in 24 years, shocking global bond markets. Domestically, mortgage rates broke above the 7% level, reaching their highest point in 45 months, increasing the burden of household interest payments. Seoul apartment prices rose for a record 86 consecutive weeks, the longest streak on record, but the pace of increase narrowed, and high-priced areas such as Gangnam and Yongsan turned to decline. Personal information of 25,000 people was leaked from Shinhan Bank, with full compensation decided and financial authorities launching an emergency inspection. POSCO sold its entire stake in Woori Financial Group, securing 676.5 billion won. The government decided to reduce October Treasury bond issuance from 19 trillion won to 14 trillion won, reflecting excess tax revenue. Construction of the advanced semiconductor cluster at the Yongin national industrial complex will begin in October, two months ahead of the original schedule. LG Energy Solution began the world's first mass production of LMR prismatic batteries through its joint venture with GM. GS Construction was selected as the preferred negotiating partner for the Mokdong District 12 reconstruction project, worth 1.7888 trillion won. Hanwha Ocean paid out 89 billion won in performance bonuses while stating it would respond strictly to illegal high-altitude sit-in protests. Coupang faces a maximum statutory fine of 100 million won for refusing to comply with a Fair Trade Commission on-site inspection. China's auto industry is projected to surpass 12 million vehicles in overseas sales this year, up 44% year-on-year, continuing its global expansion led by price competitiveness.