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"Steel Breaks in a Recession"... Steel Industry Struggles for Survival through Restructuring

The domestic steel industry is facing severe downturns, compounded by both the dumping pressure from Chinese products and the imminent high tariffs from the U.S. government. With global supply overcapacity and rising raw material costs, steelmakers are resorting to drastic measures for survival. Intense restructuring, such as workforce reductions and factory closures, is underway, and major companies are maintaining emergency management systems, betting their survival on overcoming the crisis. According to the industry on the 19th, Hyundai IMC, a subsidiary of Hyundai Steel, will accept voluntary retirement applications from technical staff until the 21st. The company plans to offer benefits to those applying for voluntary retirement, such as recognizing up to 50% of the remaining service period for up to 36 months and providing educational support of 10 million KRW per child. In December of last year, Hyundai Steel reached an agreement with its union to transition the Pohang No. 2 plant's steelmaking and rolling processes from the existing 4-shift, 2-team system to a 2-shift, 2-team system. This move is aimed at cost reduction and improving efficiency. Initially, Hyundai Steel had proposed shutting down the Pohang No. 2 plant, but a conflict arose when the union demanded an increase in investment alongside the withdrawal of the shutdown plan. Eventually, both sides reached a compromise by agreeing to reduce operations instead. As a result of the operational downsizing, the company is currently accepting requests for employee transfers. Employees working at the Pohang plant have the option to transfer to Hyundai Steel subsidiaries in Dangjin or Incheon or choose voluntary retirement. The specific timeline for the work transfers has not yet been determined. There is growing speculation that Hyundai Steel, having initiated voluntary retirement programs at its subsidiaries, may also pursue workforce reductions at the parent company in the future. This opinion is gaining weight, especially considering the overall decline in demand and increased cost pressures in the steel industry, making further workforce adjustments seem inevitable. However, Hyundai Steel has dismissed these concerns, stating that there are currently no plans for additional restructuring. The trend of restructuring in the steel industry is not limited to Hyundai Steel. In October 2024, POSCO Group also implemented voluntary retirement programs, targeting long-term employees with over 10 years of service at major subsidiaries such as POSCO and POSCO International. Notably, this large-scale voluntary retirement within the steel division is seen as the first of its kind in the group. This move is interpreted as a reflection of the growing sense of crisis across the industry. Earlier, POSCO implemented significant cost-cutting measures, including reducing executive salaries by up to 20% and abolishing its stock compensation system, as part of its efforts to improve management efficiency. POSCO Group Chairman Chang In-hwa is also accelerating business restructuring this year, pushing forward with the group's organizational transformation. Last year, POSCO secured 26.6 billion KRW in cash by selling its steel division's service center in China. Both inside and outside the industry, there are expectations that restructuring and business adjustments, particularly in China, will continue this year. POSCO Holdings is reportedly in the process of selling its Jiangsu Province Zhangjiagang Pohang Steel Mill as part of its restructuring efforts. In July of last year, the company also shut down the No. 1 wire rod plant at the Pohang Steelworks, unable to withstand the pressures of overcapacity in the global steel market. An industry insider commented, "Given the difficulties facing the domestic steel industry, Hyundai Steel's subsidiary implementing voluntary retirement along with employee transfers seems to be part of this broader trend. As production cuts are underway across the industry, it is expected that some level of workforce movement will be inevitable." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-19 16:24:13 메트로신문 기자

"'Busy Busy' Business Leaders Are Focusing All Efforts on Securing Future Growth Opportunities"

As Korea's economy is expected to face a "perfect storm" (a complex crisis) this year, business leaders are accelerating efforts to secure future growth opportunities. The increasing uncertainty in the business environment, such as the inauguration of Donald Trump's second term in the U.S. and a prolonged gap in diplomatic and trade leadership, is prompting them to mobilize private sector capabilities to ensure stable growth in core businesses and secure leadership in global markets. According to the business community on the 18th, Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Eui-sun recently traveled to the U.S. Despite the global economic downturn, the U.S. remains the most strategic region for Hyundai Motor Group, which achieved impressive results. Hyundai and Kia sold over 1.7 million vehicles in the U.S. market, accounting for more than 25% of global sales, marking their highest performance. Chairman Chung, who has elevated Hyundai's technological prowess over the past 20 years, began his trip with on-site management at the 'Mohave Test Track' and later had a golf meeting with Donald Trump Jr., who is considered a key figure in the U.S. This is seen as a move to respond to President Trump's announcement on April 2 regarding reciprocal tariffs and automobile taxes. There are predictions that if the U.S. imposes a 10% tariff on automobiles, Hyundai Motor Group's profit could decline by over 4 trillion KRW. The industry is closely watching whether Chairman Chung can foster a closer relationship with the Trump administration and continue to achieve positive outcomes. SK Group Chairman and the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Chairman Chey Tae-won is scheduled to visit the U.S. to attend the Trans-Pacific Dialogue (TPD) in Washington, D.C. on February 21-22. This will be his first visit to the U.S. since the inauguration of President Donald Trump, and according to the disclosed schedule, he will be the first of the top four chaebols' leaders to visit Washington, D.C. The TPD is an event hosted by the CJ Chey Foundation, which Chairman Chey leads, and has been held since 2021. While the event is usually held in December, this year's timing was adjusted to February due to U.S. and Japan political schedules. Given that the event has previously seen prominent opinion leaders from Korea, the U.S., and Japan, influential figures from politics and business are expected to attend this year's event as well. Within the business community, there are expectations that Chairman Chey will present new collaboration strategies with the U.S. and Japan, which he has previously discussed. Discussions are also anticipated on various sectors that are becoming key pillars of the global economy in the AI era, such as semiconductors, infrastructure, and energy industries. Recently, Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong, who has resolved his legal risks, is highly likely to visit the Middle East for his first overseas business trip. Industry insiders expect him to visit Abu Dhabi, UAE, this month. The UAE is not only the first destination Lee visited after becoming chairman in October 2022 but also the place he visited the day after being acquitted in his first trial. During his visit, Lee is expected to focus on cooperation in next-generation communication networks like 6G, IT new businesses, and semiconductor-related collaborations. Kim Dong-kwan, the eldest son of Hanwha Group Chairman Kim Seung-yeon, is focusing on expanding the group's competitiveness in the defense sector, which is one of its core areas. Kim Dong-kwan, who recently visited the UAE, met with Faisal Al Bannai, CEO of EDGE Group, on the 17th to discuss ways to build strategic partnerships in the defense industry, as well as in space, shipbuilding, and maritime sectors. Additionally, Kim explored opportunities for collaboration in unmanned air defense systems, space and satellite industries, and potential cooperation between Hanwha Ocean and EDGE Shipyard in the shipbuilding and maritime sectors. Hanwha and EDGE plan to continue discussions to establish concrete collaboration strategies and expand their strategic cooperation in the defense and related industries. An industry insider commented, "Given the challenging current situation in our country, companies are proactively preparing countermeasures to respond to the tariff bomb from the Trump administration. However, there are limits to what businesses can solve on their own, so there is also hope for diplomatic support from the government." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-18 16:24:53 메트로신문 기자

"'K-defense' targets Africa and the Middle East… Showcasing advanced technologies at the international defense exhibition 'IDEX 2025'"

South Korean defense companies are showcasing the power of "K-defense" at the largest international defense exhibition in Africa and the Middle East. According to the industry on the 17th, Hyundai Motor Group and Hanwha Group's defense subsidiaries are participating in the international defense exhibition "IDEX 2025" to showcase advanced technologies. Kia will unveil the Medium Standard Vehicle (KMTV) bonnet-type bare chassis, the Small Tactical Vehicle (KLTV) two-seat cargo, and the Tasman. Kia's medium standard vehicle is set to replace the existing 2½-ton and 5-ton military standard vehicles, and it is scheduled to be supplied to the Korean military starting in June this year. Equipped with various convenience features such as front and rear cameras and navigation, this vehicle ensures safer transportation of personnel and supplies. It has capabilities like fording a 1-meter-deep river, climbing a 60% grade (both forward and backward), handling a 40% side slope, and a transport capacity of up to 25 passengers. The medium standard vehicle bonnet-type bare chassis is made up of just the frame and engine, allowing it to be customized into various forms depending on its specialized use. The small tactical vehicle two-seat cargo is designed to help secure safe military mobility in various environments, with capabilities such as fording a river with a depth of 760 mm, handling a 60% grade, navigating a 40% side slope, starting in temperatures as low as -32°C, and having electromagnetic shielding. The Tasman, the brand's first true pickup, will be showcased as a dedicated show car with various special features tailored to the local environment, including a desert-colored matte paint, snorkel, and front bumper with fire extinguishing capabilities. "Exhibition booth of Hyundai Wia at IDEX 2025, held at the Abu Dhabi International Exhibition Center in the UAE on February 17 (local time) / Hyundai Wia" 4o mini Hyundai Wia is participating in the exhibition for the first time, unveiling a range of mobile artillery systems in the form of mockups (display models). The mobile artillery system is a weapon system that reduces the weight of existing products and significantly improves mobility by being mounted on vehicles. A representative example is the "lightweight 105mm self-propelled howitzer" mounted on a small tactical vehicle. This lightweight 105mm self-propelled howitzer was developed through the rapid research and development project by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), and it boasts a maximum range of about 14 kilometers, longer than traditional self-propelled howitzers. Also on display are mockups of tactical vehicle-based future weapon systems, such as the vehicle-mounted 81mm mortar for rapid fire support in infantry combat and the vehicle-m Hanwha Group's defense subsidiaries are showcasing key technologies of the Korean Integrated Multi-Layered Air Defense Solution. Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Systems are displaying advanced air defense capabilities, including key components such as multi-function radars (MFR), guided missiles, and launchers. These include the Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System (L-SAM), known as the "Korean THAAD," the Korean Iron Dome Long-Range Artillery Intercept System (LAMD), and the Korean Patriot Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System (M-SAM). The L-SAM is a surface-to-air defense system capable of tracking and intercepting incoming enemy missiles from much longer distances than any other air defense system currently held by the Korean military, enabling early destruction of the threats. At this exhibition, the companies showcased the key technologies of the multi-layered air defense solution, including the multi-function radar (MFR), launchers, and guided missiles, which are essential for the operation of L-SAM. The L-SAM guided missile, developed jointly by the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) and Hanwha Aerospace, features a multi-pulse propulsion system that generates stepwise thrust to reach stratospheric altitudes with low air density. Additionally, it is equipped with a Dual-Axis Control System (DACS) that precisely controls the missile's posture with minute gas ejection, even at high altitudes where the air is thin. Hanwha Aerospace showcased a K9 self-propelled howitzer equipped with a domestically produced engine. The K9, which is powered by a 1,000-horsepower diesel engine, recently passed durability tests in Egypt and will begin full-scale production in Egypt later this year. In 2022, Hanwha Aerospace signed a package export contract worth 2 trillion KRW with the Egyptian government, which includes the K9, K10 ammunition carrier, K11 fire control command vehicle, and other systems. ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-17 16:29:17 메트로신문 기자

Despite Trump’s tariffs, the cable industry remains resilient... Accelerating the push into the U.S. market.

Major domestic cable companies, such as LS Cable & System and Daehan Cable, recorded solid performance last year despite external uncertainties. Although U.S. President Donald Trump's protectionist policies have been strengthened, the global demand for electricity is rising rapidly, and investments in power infrastructure within the U.S. continue, leading to the view that the impact on the cable industry will be limited. According to industry sources on the 16th, LS Cable & System reported revenues of 6.766 trillion won and operating profit of 274.7 billion won last year, marking an 8.8% and 18.2% increase, respectively, compared to the previous year. Daehan Cable also achieved its best performance in 13 years, with revenues of 3.282 trillion won and operating profit of 114.6 billion won. The strong performance of major cable companies is largely attributed to the growth of the North American market. With increased investments in data centers in the U.S., the demand for power infrastructure has surged. The expansion of power grids, including the installation of ultra-high voltage cables and the replacement of outdated cables, has also contributed significantly to the performance boost. The U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has projected that the growth rate of power demand in the U.S. will expand from 2.6% in 2023 to 4.7% by 2028. In particular, with the replacement of aging power infrastructure and the rapid increase in demand for AI and data centers, it is expected that power demand in the U.S. will rise from 8 terawatt-hours (TWh) last year to 652 TWh by 2030, an increase of more than 80 times. Domestic cable companies are actively entering the U.S. market. LS Cable & System plans to invest 1 trillion won this year to build the largest offshore cable factory in Virginia, U.S. The factory is set to begin mass production by 2028 and will feature a 200-meter-high power cable production tower. Daehan Cable surpassed 7.2 trillion won in total orders in the U.S. market last year, achieving its best performance since entering the North American market. The company plans to strengthen its competitiveness by securing multiple projects in the U.S. through its local subsidiary, T.E. USA. The rise in copper prices due to Trump's strengthened protectionism has also had a positive impact on the industry. Under price-linked contracts, an increase in the price of copper, a key raw material, also leads to higher cable export values. According to the London Metal Exchange (LME), copper prices (spot price) as of the 14th have risen by 4.8% to $9,812 per ton compared to the previous day. This increase is attributed to a surge in demand to secure supplies in anticipation of tariff measures, driving up the prices of industrial metals. The industry expects the supercycle (boom period) in the cable industry to continue until 2030. The "Stargate" project, an AI data center initiative driven by the U.S., is also expected to be a key factor in driving the expansion of power demand. This project will require substantial power facilities and infrastructure to proceed on a large scale. An industry insider stated, "As the demand for replacing aging power grids in the U.S. rapidly increases, the role of our companies in the local market is becoming more critical." He added, "Considering this, the cable industry is unlikely to face significant direct impact from Trump's strengthened protectionist policies." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-16 15:40:58 메트로신문 기자

Korea GM plays a pivotal role in the domestic industry, securing jobs through export expansion and enhancing customer experience through an expanded lineup.

Korea GM is focusing all efforts on capturing both domestic and export markets with its strategic models. The company is particularly concentrating on the export of vehicles developed and produced in Korea while also importing competitive models from General Motors (GM) headquarters for domestic sales, implementing a "two-track" strategy. According to industry sources on the 13th, Korea GM exported 418,782 units to the U.S. last year, solidifying its position as a major contributor to Korea's export industry. This figure represents 83.8% of its total production volume (499,559 units). The key export models are the Chevrolet Trailblazer and the Trax crossover. The Trax crossover, developed by GM Technical Center Korea in Korea, played a crucial role in turning Korea GM from a deficit to profitability. The Trailblazer, which was launched in Korea in January 2020, recorded about 18,000 units in exports in October 2022, making it the top-selling domestic car for exports. The Trax crossover, a small SUV that Korea GM began producing at its Changwon plant in February 2023, has maintained steady popularity in the North American market and became the top export model for the domestic car industry last year, with over 295,000 units exported. Through the expanded exports of its key models, Korea GM is making a significant contribution to the development of both the Korean economy and the automotive industry. Korea GM plans to further increase its production to 500,000 units this year, focusing on strategic models. In the domestic market, Korea GM is expanding its product lineup under GM's brands, offering consumers a wider range of choices. Korea GM has secured a unique lineup with models such as the Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck, the GMC Sierra full-size pickup, and full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Cadillac Escalade. This year, the company plans to focus on expanding its lineup with the launch of various new models from its premium brand, Cadillac. New electric vehicle models and GM's strong RV models are expected to be the focus. Additionally, Korea GM is preparing to introduce the OnStar service in Korea. OnStar provides a new digital experience by offering remote vehicle control through a smartphone app, as well as vehicle status information, diagnostics, and more. In addition, Korea GM is preparing to introduce autonomous driving technology. At the "Cadillac EV Day" event held in Gangnam, Seoul, in November, it was announced that the domestic introduction of GM's autonomous driving technology, Super Cruise, is progressing smoothly. Chae Myung-shin, Head of Digital Business at Korea GM, stated, "We are preparing solutions that will meet the expectations of domestic customers, including the development of high-precision maps, navigation systems for this purpose, and addressing regulatory aspects, to launch Super Cruise in Korea." While Korea GM is focusing on both the domestic and export markets, rumors of a potential withdrawal continue to circulate. After receiving 8.1 trillion won in support from the Korea Development Bank in 2018, the company promised to continue its operations in Korea and produce two new car models through 2028. While Korea GM has kept its promises by producing the Chevrolet Trailblazer and the Trax crossover, it has not disclosed a clear future vision regarding additional investments. In response to these concerns, Korea GM emphasizes its commitment to securing stable jobs, enhancing future competitiveness, and focusing on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) management. A Korea GM representative stated, "We are driving sustainable growth through enhanced production efficiency, a multi-brand strategy, and customer-centric management," adding, "We are also continuously investing in the latest facilities, such as converting R&D corporate interns into full-time employees and opening a new service center in Seoul in July last year." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-13 15:33:38 메트로신문 기자

Samsung 'Humanoid' vs LG 'CLOi'... Who Will Win the Robot Market?

With the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, and sensor technologies, the robotics industry is emerging as the next growth driver for the electronics sector. As global big tech companies like Tesla, Amazon, and SoftBank enter the market, Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics have also entered into full-scale competition. According to global market research firm TrendForce on the 12th, the global robotics market is expected to grow to a size of $100 billion (approximately 133 trillion won) by 2028. In particular, the humanoid robot market is anticipated to experience explosive growth at an average annual rate of 154%, leading to continued active investment from global information technology (IT) companies. In particular, Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, announced the launch of the "Cosmos" platform at the keynote speech at CES 2025 in the U.S. earlier last month. Cosmos is a simulation technology that helps robots learn in environments similar to the real world. It is expected to accelerate warehouse and factory automation, driving the growth of the robotics market. In South Korea, Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics are presenting differentiated strategies, focusing on industrial and humanoid robots, and service and business-to-business (B2B) robots, respectively. Samsung Electronics is accelerating the development of humanoid robots in collaboration with Rainbow Robotics, while LG Electronics has integrated Bear Robotics as a subsidiary and is focusing on expanding the service robot market. Samsung Electronics increased its stake in the domestic robotics company "Rainbow Robotics" from 14.7% to 35% last year, becoming the largest shareholder. The total investment amounts to 354.2 billion won. Rainbow Robotics, established in 2011 by the KAIST "Hubo Lab" research team, is a robotics specialist company that developed Korea's first bipedal robot, "Hubo." Through this investment, Samsung Electronics aims to accelerate the development of intelligent humanoid robots. To accelerate its robotics technology development, Samsung Electronics is undergoing organizational restructuring, which includes the establishment of a new Future Robotics Division, strengthening the robotics research team within Samsung Research, and expanding patent applications for autonomous driving and AI-based robots. These efforts are aimed at overseeing the entire scope of robotics technology development. Samsung Electronics is pushing forward with research and development for robots to enable unmanned processes in semiconductor plants by 2030. Additionally, the company plans to introduce industrial robots into manufacturing and logistics automation systems, with a future goal of actively entering the humanoid robot market. In the first half of this year, Samsung will launch the AI-based butler robot "Bolly" and the wearable robot "Botfit." Lee Jong-hee, Vice Chairman and CEO of Samsung Electronics, stated, "The humanoid robot plans will accelerate faster than expected." He added, "To move forward together, we have also established the Robotics Promotion Division and are proceeding step by step." LG Electronics is strengthening its efforts in the autonomous driving robot market with a differentiated robot strategy. At the end of last month, LG Electronics acquired an additional 30% stake in the AI-based autonomous driving robot company "Bear Robotics" in Silicon Valley, bringing its total stake to 51% and making it a subsidiary. Founded in 2017, Bear Robotics is an AI-based commercial autonomous robot company known for its expertise in swarm control technology, which moves multiple robots along optimized paths, as well as its cloud-based management solutions, which have earned global recognition for their technological capabilities. Since 2017, LG Electronics has been entering the service robot market and currently supplies seven different types of "CLOi" robots. With the acquisition of Bear Robotics, the company plans to focus on the commercial robot market, including food and beverage (F&B) and logistics delivery, while maximizing synergy effects. To achieve this, LG Electronics will integrate its commercial robot business, centered around "CLOi," with Bear Robotics. The company will retain Bear Robotics CEO Ha Jung-woo and other key executives to ensure continuity in the existing business, while also participating in the board of directors to drive the growth of the robot business and create synergies. LG Electronics also plans to strengthen its business in both home and industrial robots. The home robot division will be overseen by the Home Appliance & Air Solution (HS) division, which is working on developing the "AI Home Robot" that seamlessly connects home appliances and services using AI. CEO Jo Ju-wan of LG Electronics stated at the CES 2025 press conference, "Robots are a clear future," adding, "In addition to the F&B and logistics delivery robots we are currently focusing on, we are also preparing home robots, such as mobile AI home hubs." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-12 16:13:28 메트로신문 기자

Component Companies That Survived the Hardships Thank Smartphones Recovery and the Emergence of Robots

Amid the global economic downturn and the tariff risks posed by the Trump administration, the domestic information technology (IT) component industry is seeing a positive turn. Domestic component companies had been struggling with poor performance due to the downturn in markets such as electric vehicles and smartphones. However, with the smartphone market recovering and the emergence of new markets like humanoid robots and autonomous driving, they are starting to benefit. Camera modules, which are core components for these markets, are seeing increased demand. The component industry is focusing on high-value-added products to secure future growth momentum. According to market research firm Omdia on the 11th, global smartphone shipments are expected to reach 1.223 billion units this year, a 7.1% increase from last year (1.141 billion units). Since last year, the smartphone market has been showing signs of recovery. In the fourth quarter of last year, global smartphone shipments totaled 328.4 million units, a 6% increase compared to the previous quarter. Domestic component companies set record-high revenues last year. Samsung Electro-Mechanics has focused on providing components for Samsung Galaxy, while LG Innotek and LG Display have concentrated on components for Apple iPhones. As a result, the supply of high-value products such as high-performance camera modules has increased, boosting performance. This year, it is expected that performance will continue to improve, as both Samsung Electronics and Apple are set to release mid- to low-priced models, such as the Galaxy A series and iPhone SE4. LG Innotek will supply the front and rear camera modules for the iPhone SE4, while LG Display will supply OLED panels for the iPhone SE4. Jeong Cheol-dong, CEO of LG Display, stated at the '4th Generation OLED TV Panel' technology presentation last month, "We have worked hard on development, quality, and cost competitiveness over the past year, and with our differentiated capabilities, we expect to achieve results this year." He added, "It is difficult to give specific numbers by quarter, but we are optimistic that this year will be a turnaround year." The tariff policies of the Trump administration are also seen as a positive factor. The U.S. president's tariffs on China are expected to reduce the use of Chinese components in Apple products, which could result in indirect benefits for domestic companies. What is particularly noteworthy is the expansion of the humanoid and autonomous driving markets. As these sectors, identified as future growth drivers by the industry, expand, component companies are boosting their profitability. Core components of humanoid robots and autonomous vehicles, such as camera modules, are a key focus for domestic suppliers. In fact, Samsung Electro-Mechanics is expected to achieve a record-breaking revenue of 10.2941 trillion won and an operating profit of 735 billion won in 2024, marking the company's first time exceeding 10 trillion won in annual revenue. LG Innotek's automotive parts division saw a 2% decline in annual sales compared to the previous year, but its order backlog increased by 27%, reaching 13.6 trillion won, a 27% rise from the previous year. Domestic component companies are now fully entering the technological leadership competition by focusing on high-value-added products. Samsung Electro-Mechanics identifies "Mi-RAE" as its new business area, concentrating on industries such as robotics and AI. Specifically, the company plans to intensify its efforts to target the AI semiconductor substrate market, particularly FC-BGA (Flip-Chip Ball Grid Array). FC-BGA is a next-generation substrate that allows AI semiconductor chips to be densely connected to a mainboard without the need for wires. Additionally, Samsung Electro-Mechanics aims to develop and supply components such as MLCCs and camera modules needed for humanoid robots. LG Innotek, which generates over 70% of its revenue from Apple-related sales, is accelerating its efforts to target new businesses in sectors such as automotive, robotics, and semiconductors. It is reported that more than half of the 14 humanoid robots equipped with NVIDIA's AI technology will feature LG Innotek's camera modules. Additionally, LG Innotek is speeding up its entry into the AI semiconductor substrate market by beginning mass production of FC-BGA for global big tech companies. Moon Hyuk-su, CEO of LG Innotek, stated at the "CES 2025" held last month, "We have recently begun mass production of FC-BGA for North American big tech companies," and added, "In addition, we are pursuing development collaborations with several global big tech companies." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-11 16:08:13 메트로신문 기자

Naver and Kakao Break Their Commitment to Proprietary AI and Shift to a 'Two-Track' System

Naver and Kakao have revised their business strategies to move from using only their own artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to incorporating third-party large language models (LLM). This shift is seen as an effort to accelerate the enhancement of their businesses or services by integrating externally advanced LLMs. According to industry sources on the 10th, both Naver and Kakao have decided to modify their previous strategy of relying solely on their own LLMs. Instead, they announced that they will adopt a two-track approach, utilizing multiple LLMs as needed. Until now, Naver had developed its own LLM, "HyperCLOVA X," while Kakao had developed "Kanana." However, among these changes, Naver announced its revised AI strategy during its 4th-quarter earnings conference call on the 7th, drawing attention to CEO Choi Soo-yeon’s participation in the "AI Action Summit." The summit, which gathers leaders from global AI companies, offers an opportunity for discussions on AI business matters with relevant stakeholders. In the recent conference call, CEO Choi Soo-yeon stated, "We have kept the possibility open for collaboration with various external LLMs, including those from global big tech companies." She added, "Although there have been no cases of using third-party LLMs in service offerings yet, we are relatively flexible and are considering the introduction of external LLMs." She further added, "While competitors are expanding AI capabilities indefinitely, HyperCLOVA X aims to efficiently build model capabilities and speed optimized for Naver services." Based on CEO Choi’s statement, the IT industry suggests two possible directions. One is that HyperCLOVA X will be utilized for the integration of Naver services, while external LLMs will be used to enhance internal services. The other possibility is that Naver could separate the use of LLMs for areas that require a closed model, such as B2B business, and areas that need to adapt quickly to changes, such as B2C business. On the 4th, Kakao held a press conference with Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, and announced plans to integrate OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its own LLM, "Kanana." Kakao CEO Jeong Shin-a explained the partnership in a keynote presentation, stating, "By collaborating with OpenAI, a company with global technological competitiveness, we aim to provide innovative customer experiences and lead the popularization of AI services." Kakao has decided to utilize OpenAI’s latest AI technology APIs for its major services, including KakaoTalk and Kanana. Furthermore, in order to accelerate its transition to becoming an "AI native company," Kakao has also decided to introduce ChatGPT Enterprise. Kanana is an AI agent service that not only provides contextual responses in one-on-one conversations but also understands and engages in group chats, helping users build and strengthen relationships. Kakao plans to further enhance this with OpenAI's technology to offer users the highest level of AI experience. Kakao had already set up an "AI orchestration" strategy to use external LLMs and has been preparing for its implementation. In the second half of last year, Kakao formed a separate AI orchestration team to develop a strategy for leveraging global big tech LLMs. Kakao's AI orchestration strategy is seen as a way to complement its relatively lagging AI capabilities. Last year, Kakao decided to abandon its self-developed LLM "KoGPT," which had been delayed for release, and instead declared a complete restart of its AI efforts. CEO Jeong Shin-a also stated, "We are now in a game where the focus has shifted from the competition between language models to providing meaningful services that users can actually use. Kakao is currently considering AI solutions that can be integrated into our services." There are concerns from some quarters regarding Naver and Kakao’s two-track strategy of utilizing external LLMs. An industry insider noted, "The concept of 'sovereign AI,' which refers to AI sovereignty, is gaining attention." They added, "I hope that the two-track strategy of relying on external LLMs does not lead to neglecting the development of their own LLMs." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-11 09:18:32 메트로신문 기자

Samsung and LG Clash in the U.S. HVAC Market: Residential Outdoor Units vs. Industrial Chillers

South Korea's leading home appliance companies, Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics, are accelerating their efforts to target the North American heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) market. Samsung Electronics is aiming at the residential market with its outdoor unit for the unitary (central air conditioning) system, while LG Electronics is focusing on the industrial sector through its "chillers." Samsung and LG will participate in the AHR Expo, the largest HVAC exhibition in North America, which will be held in Orlando, Florida, from February 10-12 (local time). The AHR Expo is an event hosted by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), where over 1,800 global companies will showcase the latest products and technologies. Samsung Electronics will showcase its high-efficiency hybrid inverter outdoor unit, the "Hyrex R454B," at the event. This is a solution aimed at targeting the North American residential unitary market. Unitary systems are a North American-specific air conditioning method used in homes or small to medium-sized buildings, where cool air is distributed through ducts for cooling. With the Hyrex outdoor unit, Samsung Electronics presents a differentiated solution that is highly compatible with indoor units and easy to install. The Hyrex outdoor unit can use existing refrigerant piping and wiring during replacement, and it allows for connections with pipes of various sizes, increasing installation convenience and reducing costs. Samsung Electronics has set up a 350㎡ (approximately 100-pyeong) booth. The company will showcase a range of residential and commercial HVAC solutions, including the following: ▲ high-efficiency hybrid inverter outdoor unit "Hyrex (Hylex) R454B," ▲ residential heat pump "EHS," and ▲ high-efficiency system air conditioner R32 "DVM" lineup. The residential heat pump EHS is a solution for underfloor heating and domestic hot water. By using air heat and electricity to generate hot water, it is more efficient and produces less carbon compared to boilers that use fossil fuels. The commercial DVM large-capacity system air conditioner has been designed with environmental considerations in mind, utilizing R32 refrigerant, which has about 32% of the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of the conventional R410A refrigerant. Choi Hang-seok, Executive Director of Samsung Electronics' DA Business Division, stated, "We will actively target the global HVAC market, including the North American market." At this exhibition, LG Electronics is targeting the high-efficiency HVAC market with its "chiller" products. Recently, chillers have gained significant attention due to the growing demand for heat management in large buildings, including AI data centers, driven by the investment in AI infrastructure by big tech companies. Chillers circulate cold water through heat exchangers to supply cool air. They are primarily installed in large buildings or industrial facilities such as factories. In its year-end personnel changes last year, LG Electronics established a new ES Business Division with the goal of becoming a global top-tier integrated HVAC company. The company has set up a 646㎡ (approximately 195-pyeong) space to offer customized HVAC solutions, from industrial to residential applications. This year, the space has been expanded by 73㎡ compared to last year, reaching a total of 646㎡. LG Electronics introduced a "no-oil inverter turbo chiller" that does not use lubricating oil on the motor shaft. By applying magnetic bearing technology, the motor shaft of the high-speed compressor is levitated and supported by electromagnetic force, reducing friction loss and improving energy efficiency. In addition to the chiller, LG also presented its heating lineup. The "inverter heat pump" lineup is designed to cater to various climates across the U.S. Considering the prevalence of large single-family homes in North America, the system offers residential heating and cooling solutions in a unitary format that uses ducts, meeting the diverse needs of local customers. The "Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump," which won the "2025 AHR Innovation Award" in the Sustainability Solutions category, maintains stable heating performance even at -35°C. Lee Jae-sung, Head of LG Electronics' ES Business Division (Vice President), stated, "We will accelerate our B2B business with various space- and climate-customized heating and cooling solutions, including chillers, which are gaining attention as heat management solutions for AI data centers." He added, "We will expand our influence in the global HVAC market." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-11 09:13:20 메트로신문 기자

Amid China's low-cost offensive, South Korea's steel industry, already struggling, is on edge following Trump's tariff announcement.

President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imported into the United States, causing both the steel industry and the government to work on countermeasures. The industry, already struggling due to China's aggressive pricing and weak demand, is now facing even greater challenges. If the "tariff bomb" is implemented, the industry is expected to experience a triple blow, worsening profitability. According to the industry on the 10th, President Trump is gradually expanding the "trade war" that started with China to the rest of the world. On the 9th, President Trump stated, "Any steel entering the U.S. will be subject to a 25% tariff." He also announced that aluminum will be subjected to the same tariff rate. The tariffs on steel and aluminum were mentioned by President Trump when he signed an executive order at the White House on January 31st. At that time, he announced that tariffs on steel and aluminum would be imposed within months, along with those on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, but the timing has been moved up sooner than expected. If President Trump signs the executive order imposing a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum products as previously stated, it is expected that the Korean steel industry will inevitably face a blow. The U.S. steel market reaches 100 million tons annually, with domestic production at 80 million tons. Imports exceed 20 million tons, with Korean steel accounting for about 2.6 million tons. During his first term, President Trump applied Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act to impose a 25% tariff on steel products and a 10% tariff on aluminum products, citing national security reasons. At that time, South Korea negotiated with the U.S. and, in exchange for exemption from the steel tariffs, agreed to a quota system that limits export volumes. Currently, the steel industry is closely monitoring the U.S. administration's announcement of specific executive orders. With the ongoing challenges from China's low-cost competition, the addition of U.S. tariffs could potentially worsen the situation even further. The industry has been considering local production as a way to minimize risks, but it is expected that it will take considerable time before this becomes a reality. Hyundai Steel is reviewing the construction of a steel mill in the U.S. to produce automotive steel plates and other products. During its earnings conference call last month, Hyundai Steel stated, "We are actively considering establishing a steel mill in the U.S." and added, "We will make it public once a decision on investment is made." POSCO continues to focus on investments in future businesses, such as the development of hydrogen reduction steelmaking (HyREX) technology. POSCO Group also mentioned in a conference call earlier this month regarding entry into the U.S. market, saying, "The investment costs are high and the situation is volatile," but added, "We are carefully reviewing various options." The government is closely monitoring the U.S. move to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum. An emergency inspection meeting was held at the Seoul Steel Association at 3:30 PM, with Deputy Trade Minister Park Jong-won presiding, and attended by officials from the Steel Association and key export companies. Deputy Minister Park emphasized, "The government is mobilizing all available networks, including our embassy in the U.S., to gather specific information." He added, "We will closely coordinate with the industry to actively respond and minimize the impact on our companies." The industry has reached a consensus to share the information gathered so far through both the association and individual export companies, and to respond closely as one team, with both the public and private sectors working together. A steel industry official stated, "Since there is a quota system in place, it is difficult to predict what decision will be made regarding South Korea." He added, "We are preparing various scenarios for each company while waiting for the precise executive order from the Trump administration." He further commented, "If tariffs are imposed, some quantities will go to U.S. steel companies, but even if U.S. steel companies adjust their plant utilization rates, the amount they can absorb will be limited." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-11 09:09:01 메트로신문 기자

"Naver Joins the '10 Trillion Club' for the First Time, Driven by Search Ads and Commerce, Pushed Forward by Fintech and Cloud."

Naver has become the first domestic internet platform to join the "10 trillion won annual revenue club." The strong performance of its key revenue sources, including search ads and its e-commerce business, played a significant role. According to industry sources on the 9th, Naver recently announced that its annual consolidated revenue for last year reached 10.7377 trillion won, marking an 11.0% increase compared to the previous year. Its annual operating profit rose by 32.9% to 1.9793 trillion won, and its annual EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) increased by 24.9% to 2.6644 trillion won. In the fourth quarter of last year, Naver's consolidated revenue grew by 13.7% year-on-year, reaching 2.8856 trillion won, while operating profit for the same period rose by 33.7% year-on-year to 542 billion won. Naver's performance last year is interpreted as being driven by the growth of its Search Platform (search advertising) and Commerce sectors, while its Fintech and Content sectors provided additional support. The revenue by sector is as follows: ▲Search Platform: 3.9462 trillion won ▲Commerce: 2.923 trillion won ▲Fintech (Finance + Technology): 1.5084 trillion won ▲Content: 1.7964 trillion won ▲Cloud: 563.7 billion won The Search Platform sector saw a significant increase in advertising revenue, driven by targeted ads and the introduction of the homepage feed on the portal screen. This led to a 9.9% year-on-year growth in annual revenue. In the fourth quarter, the sector's revenue grew by 14.7% compared to the previous year. In the Commerce sector, Naver achieved a remarkable 14.8% year-on-year increase in annual revenue, even as most e-commerce platforms struggled. Last year, Naver launched "Naver Plus Store" in its commerce division and strengthened its partnership between Naver Plus Membership and its e-commerce services. Additionally, the company successfully enhanced the efficiency of its commerce advertising, maximizing profitability. Launched in October of last year, the Naver Plus Store, which emphasizes ultra-personalization, uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze individual preferences and interests, recommending products, benefits, promotions, and shopping-related content. The full profitability of this service is expected to be confirmed in the first and second quarters of this year. In the Fintech sector, Naver Pay grew in line with the expansion of Smart Store, and external payment volume also increased, leading to a 11.3% year-on-year growth in annual revenue, with a 12.6% increase in revenue for the fourth quarter. Despite the prolonged economic downturn, the fourth-quarter payment volume reached 19.3 trillion won, an 18.3% increase compared to the same period last year. In the Content sector, the exclusion of Naver Z from consolidated subsidiaries, combined with the growth in paid subscribers for a camera application linked to AI webtoon content, led to a 3.7% year-on-year increase in annual revenue. The Cloud sector recorded the highest growth. The increase in paid IDs for NeuroCloud and Lineworks, along with strong sales from the digital twin project in Saudi Arabia, resulted in a 26.1% year-on-year growth in annual revenue, with a 41.1% increase in fourth-quarter revenue. Naver aims to generate synergy across all its business areas in 2025, focusing on the organic integration of search advertising and commerce. Naver plans to maximize the efficiency of its search advertising business through AI engines and expand its presence on external media. In addition, in the commerce sector, Naver intends to launch the personalized shopping service "Naver Plus Store" as a separate app in the first half of the year to enhance the lock-in effect among users of its commerce platform. Choi Soo-yeon, CEO of Naver, stated, "This year will be a crucial period for implementing the On-service AI strategy across all of Naver's services. By enhancing the platform with AI technology, we will create new value and business opportunities, ultimately strengthening Naver's unique competitive advantage." He added, "In the commerce sector, through the launch of the new Naver Plus Store app in the first half of the year, we will expand the search-based shopping experience into a more personalized, exploration-based experience, offering a more intuitive and powerful shopping experience." Meanwhile, on the 7th, Naver proposed an agenda for its upcoming shareholder meeting scheduled for February 26, which includes appointing Naver's founder, Lee Hae-jin, Global Investment Officer (GIO), as an internal director. Lee Hae-jin had resigned from the position of Chairman of Naver's board of directors in 2017. ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-09 16:05:54 메트로신문 기자

FSC and LCC performance shows a stark contrast… LCCs overcome crisis through cargo business.

In the domestic aviation industry, the performance of full-service carriers (FSCs) and low-cost carriers (LCCs) last year has been highly divergent. While overall revenue increased due to rising travel demand, operating profits declined due to high exchange rates and high oil prices. However, Korean Air stood out with improved performance, driven by its specialized strategy in both passenger and cargo sectors. Going forward, competition in the cargo sector among airlines is expected to intensify. According to industry sources on the 9th, Korean Air achieved its highest-ever performance, surpassing 16 trillion won in annual revenue, thanks to growth in both passenger and cargo sectors. The airline's annual revenue reached 16.1166 trillion won, and its operating profit was 1.9446 trillion won. This represents increases of 10.6% and 22.5%, respectively, compared to the previous year. The revenue is the highest level since the company was founded in 1969. The company's annual net profit also surged by 36.8%, reaching 1.2542 trillion won, up from 916.8 billion won the previous year. The growth of Korean Air can be attributed to its expansion of long-haul international routes and the increase in air cargo rates. Last year, Korean Air's international passenger count rose by 26.5% to 17.694 million, while its international cargo volume increased by 9.5% to 1.604 million tons. On the other hand, the LCC (Low-Cost Carrier) industry has faced difficulties due to intensified competition on short-haul international routes, high exchange rates, and rising oil prices. One of the main factors behind the poor performance is that LCCs lack the competitiveness in air cargo, compared to FSCs. Jeju Air is expected to release its results for last year on the 10th. The industry anticipates that Jeju Air's revenue will increase by about 11%, reaching 1.8 trillion won. However, its operating profit is expected to decrease by 15.3%, falling to 137 billion won. Particularly, Jeju Air, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, faces its biggest crisis following the tragic incident involving one of its passenger planes at the end of last year. Similarly, T'way Air is expected to see a 13% increase in revenue, reaching 1.53 trillion won, but its operating profit is predicted to drop by 63%, amounting to 51 billion won. The LCC (Low-Cost Carrier) industry is focusing on air cargo business as a breakthrough for enhancing profitability and is accelerating efforts to secure competitiveness. This is driven by factors such as demand from China's e-commerce sector and the rise in sea freight rates due to the Red Sea crisis. Eastar Jet began cargo operations on the Incheon-Bangkok route on January 15. The airline primarily transports e-commerce products, electronics, auto parts, clothing, and fruits, and plans to expand its cargo routes starting next month to destinations such as Tokyo, Osaka, Taipei, Shanghai, and Zhengzhou. T'way Air has been utilizing the belly cargo space in its long-haul aircraft to transport both passengers and cargo. Belly cargo space refers to the unused space in the lower part of a large passenger aircraft, and T'way Air has been filling this space with cargo to boost its performance. Air Premia recorded a net cargo volume of 23,425 tons last year, marking a roughly 20% increase compared to the previous year's 18,739 tons. Since 2021, when the airline's net cargo volume was just 35 tons, Air Premia has steadily grown its cargo business, reaching 6,356 tons in 2022 and 18,739 tons in 2023. Air cargo transport volume has been steadily increasing. According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport's Air Portal system, the total international air cargo volume last year reached 4.19 million tons, representing a 12% increase compared to 3.74 million tons in 2023. LCCs (Low-Cost Carriers) recorded a sharp increase in their cargo volume, growing from 18,668 tons in 2020 to 127,342 tons last year. An industry insider noted, "For LCCs, passenger demand isn't their main revenue source, so diversification of business is necessary. With increasing demand for overseas e-commerce goods from places like China, they are now actively engaging in the cargo transport business." The insider added, "In the future, it seems that airlines will seek new revenue streams through business diversification across various sectors." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-09 15:14:51 메트로신문 기자

Last year, the K-battery industry struggled as well, with losses in all four quarters. Companies are now focusing on reducing investments and concentrating on efficiency improvements.

The three major domestic battery companies (LG Energy Solution, Samsung SDI, and SK On) all recorded losses in the fourth quarter of last year. With the policy changes under the second Trump administration and various other uncertainties, the industry is now facing a challenging situation. In the midst of this uncertain external environment, battery companies are planning to focus on strategies for operational efficiency, such as reducing investment and transitioning production lines, throughout this year. According to industry sources on the 8th, LG Energy Solution reported fourth-quarter revenue of 6.4512 trillion won and an operating loss of 2.255 trillion won. Excluding the 3.773 trillion won subsidy received under the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the actual operating loss amounted to 6.028 trillion won. Samsung SDI recorded a quarterly loss for the first time in about seven years. In the fourth quarter of last year, the company reported revenue of 3.7545 trillion won and an operating loss of 2.567 trillion won. Excluding subsidies, the actual operating loss amounted to 2.816 trillion won. SK On also recorded a loss in the fourth quarter of last year, with revenue of 6.2666 trillion won and an operating loss of 1.127 trillion won. Industry experts believe that the decline in electric vehicle battery demand from automakers, coupled with falling battery supply prices, has worsened profitability. With the slow recovery of the industry, the uncertainty surrounding IRA subsidies under the second Trump administration is also growing. As a result, companies are adjusting their investment strategies to respond to the uncertain market environment. LG Energy Solution has set its capital expenditure (CAPEX) for this year at approximately 10 trillion won, which is about 3 trillion won less than the previous year. This decision comes in response to the long-term stagnation of electric vehicle demand, leading to greater demand volatility, as well as the maximization of idle line utilization, particularly in North America. However, the company is not simply deferring or reducing investments. It plans to continue preparations for launching joint ventures (JVs) with Stellantis and Honda, which are expected to commence operations in the second half of the year, in order to meet customer needs. Samsung SDI has also taken a cautious stance regarding its investment plans for this year. While it spent 6.6 trillion won on capital expenditures last year, it plans to scale back investments this year. In a conference call in January, Samsung SDI stated, "With uncertainty in forward demand and many companies adjusting their investment plans, we are also re-evaluating our investment strategy based on market conditions. Overall, we are adjusting our investment plans in a more conservative direction, and capital expenditure this year will be lower than the previous year." SK On plans to reduce its battery facility investment from 7.5 trillion won last year to about 3.5 trillion won this year, cutting the investment by more than half. The operation of the joint venture factory with Ford in the U.S. will also be delayed by one year. The company aims to reassess the optimal timing based on the market conditions. Additionally, battery companies are exploring ways to export lithium-ion batteries produced in Canada to factories in Europe to avoid the impact of U.S. policies. This strategy is designed to mitigate the potential loss of price competitiveness for domestic companies that have invested in Canada, in the event that the U.S. imposes a 25% tariff on Canadian products. Europe's favorable stance toward the electric vehicle (EV) industry is one of the key factors driving domestic battery companies to consider Europe as an alternative production base. Since January 30, discussions have been underway in Europe to revive the automotive industry. The key aspects of the policies under discussion include: ▲Carbon dioxide penalty deferral ▲EU-level EV purchase subsidies The industry anticipates that if both policies are implemented simultaneously, it will have a positive effect on European EV demand. The final policy details are expected to be unveiled on March 5. An industry insider noted, "As the uncertainty surrounding U.S. policies increases, the developments in the European market will have a significant impact on the battery industry. If electric vehicle incentives are strengthened and regulations are relaxed, companies may carefully consider expanding their production bases in Europe." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-09 15:10:56 메트로신문 기자

Trump's tariffs targeting only China made Apple suffer while Samsung felt relieved, but "this is just the beginning."

The tariff war triggered by Trump has begun, with China becoming the first target. As a result, there are concerns that Apple, which produces most of its products in China, will be hit hard, while Samsung Electronics' smartphones are expected to benefit in the short term. However, some fear that this is merely a 'breathing pause.' With China now facing additional U.S. tariffs, there is a growing possibility that Korea's exports of intermediate goods, such as semiconductors, to China could be affected. Particularly, since President Trump had promised to impose tariffs on all countries during his campaign, home appliance companies with production bases in Mexico are likely to be forced to revise their strategies. At 12:01 AM on February 4 (Eastern Time), the tariff increase on China, which President Trump had previously announced, went into effect. Meanwhile, on February 3, President Trump decided to delay the imposition of a 25% tariff on Mexico and Canada for one month, just one day before it was set to be implemented. As most of Apple's production facilities are based in China, the company is expected to be directly impacted, with forecasts suggesting that Samsung Electronics' smartphones could see short-term gains. More than 85% of Apple's iPhone production is carried out in China. Due to the tariff measures, a price increase for the iPhone has become inevitable. If iPhone prices rise, Samsung Electronics may see a boost in its price competitiveness. However, it is uncertain whether Apple will receive the same exemption from tariffs that it did during the first Trump administration, when the company was granted some relief on certain products. The issue is that while South Korea has avoided being the primary target of these tariffs, this may only be a temporary reprieve. If the prices of Chinese-made IT products such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets rise in the U.S. market, it could lead to a decrease in South Korea's exports of intermediate goods to China. According to analysis by Counterpoint Research, based on data from the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC), it is predicted that 80% of Chinese-made finished products related to displays imported into the U.S. will be affected by tariffs. As a result, a contraction in the U.S. IT and home appliance markets could lead to a reduction in production within China, which in turn may result in a decline in South Korea’s exports of intermediate goods to China, such as semiconductors and wireless communication components. This is especially concerning given that while the U.S. has agreed to delay the imposition of tariffs on Canada and Mexico, this situation may not last long. President Trump has consistently advocated for imposing a universal tariff of more than 10% on all countries as part of his campaign promises, so there is a possibility that additional tariffs could soon be expanded to other countries. Moreover, if the U.S. government does not take further action on the border issue with Mexico within a month, the threat of reintroducing tariffs could be revived at any time. Both Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics have most of their production facilities in Mexico. Samsung produces TVs and home appliances in Tijuana and Querétaro, which are located near the U.S. border, while LG Electronics manufactures home appliances and electronics in Reynosa, Monterrey, and Ramos Arizpe, Mexico. As a result, companies in industries such as home appliances and batteries with factories in Mexico, Canada, and other countries are likely to face inevitable strategic adjustments. The home appliance industry, having experienced a 20-50% tariff bomb on washing machines during the first Trump administration, has since built factories in the U.S. in response, and industry analysts believe that companies in this sector have strengthened their ability to respond to similar challenges in the second administration. It is reported that Samsung Electronics is considering producing some of its products, such as dryers, at its Newberry plant in South Carolina, which currently manufactures products at its Querétaro facility in Mexico. Han Jong-hee, Vice Chairman and CEO of Samsung Electronics, stated at a press conference held during CES 2025 in the U.S. last month, "As you know, Samsung has quite a number of factories around the world. We are not concentrating on one particular location, but we will make good use of this advantage." It is also reported that LG Electronics is considering relocating some of its production, such as refrigerators, to its factory in Tennessee, USA. Kim Chang-tae, Chief Financial Officer of LG Electronics, stated during a conference call on January 23, "If the level of tariff increases requires fundamental changes to the supply chain structure, we believe that utilizing our know-how in operating production facilities in the U.S. could lead to more proactive changes in our production location strategy." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-06 15:31:54 메트로신문 기자

POSCO, which overcame past U.S. import regulations and grew, is expected to overcome the "tariff barriers" once again.

POSCO, the "elder sibling" of the steel industry, saw a nearly 40% decrease in operating profit last year due to worsening market conditions. Additionally, the possibility of a reduction in the U.S. tariff-free quota has raised concerns about the "Trump risk," further adding pressure. As a result, there are growing fears surrounding POSCO's current situation. However, POSCO has a history of proving its competitiveness and surviving even during challenging times, such as under the U.S.'s "trigger price" system. While Japanese steelmakers struggled with import restrictions, POSCO solidified its position in the market through strategic responses. The industry remains optimistic, with many believing that POSCO can overcome the current uncertain external environment as well. According to industry sources on the 6th, POSCO Holdings' revenue for last year was 72.688 trillion KRW, a 5.8% decrease compared to the same period the previous year. Net profit also fell by 48.6% to 9.5 trillion KRW. In the steel sector, POSCO's revenue dropped by 3.6% to 37.556 trillion KRW, and operating profit decreased by 29.3% to 1.473 trillion KRW. The decrease in both revenue and operating profit was attributed to a decline in steel demand and the impact of the economic downturn, which led to a reduction in production and sales due to fluctuations in the number of operating blast furnaces. Moreover, the sense of crisis has intensified as U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly announced plans to impose tariffs targeting the steel industry. Similar to President Trump's tariff policy, there have been past instances of such measures. POSCO demonstrated its competitiveness even under the "trigger price" system implemented by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter in the 1970s, which was aimed at protecting the domestic market. The trigger price system set a specific price threshold, and if foreign steel products were imported below that price, the U.S. could initiate anti-dumping investigations without complicated procedures. At that time, POSCO successfully entered the U.S. market by establishing UPI (USS-POSCO Industries). By investing 50-50 with U.S. Steel, POSCO modernized a cold-rolling plant in Pittsburgh and supplied raw materials, thus avoiding trade friction. Additionally, POSCO adopted a differentiated strategy from Japanese steelmakers. While Japanese companies maintained high-price policies and sold steel at elevated prices, POSCO focused on price competitiveness to target the market. Thanks to this strategy, POSCO was able to minimize the impact of the trigger price system while solidifying its position in the U.S. market. Building on its past experience, POSCO is now considering a local production strategy to avoid U.S. tariffs. It is carefully exploring the possibility of establishing production facilities within the United States. In addition, POSCO is actively seeking ways to maintain its competitiveness despite the deteriorating market conditions. The company plans to focus on systematically innovating its cost structure to maximize profitability. This includes developing technologies to reduce raw material usage or effectively blend low-cost raw materials while maintaining the same quality. Ultimately, the goal is to maximize production efficiency and significantly reduce raw material costs. Furthermore, POSCO plans to secure global business opportunities by expanding investments in high-growth, high-profit markets such as India and North America, and strengthen its core competitiveness by achieving concrete results in the carbon-neutral sector. A POSCO spokesperson stated, "The intensification of regulations on China and the easing of monetary policies, including fiscal policies, will serve as positive signals." They added, "We cautiously expect that the global steel market will improve in the second half of this year." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-06 15:26:35 메트로신문 기자

'Shipbuilding and Energy Boom' HD Hyundai Records Operating Profit of 2.9832 Trillion KRW Last Year, Up 46.8% Compared to the Previous Year.

HD Hyundai recorded strong performance last year, driven by improvements in the shipbuilding and power equipment subsidiaries. On the 6th, HD Hyundai announced its annual results, reporting consolidated revenue of 67.7656 trillion KRW and operating profit of 2.9832 trillion KRW. This marks a 10.5% increase in revenue and a 46.8% increase in operating profit compared to the previous year. This strong performance was largely due to significant improvements in the shipbuilding and marine sectors, along with the continued strong performance of the power equipment division. Looking at the major business segments, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore, in the shipbuilding and marine sector, led the performance improvement with a 19.9% increase in revenue, reaching 25.5386 trillion KRW. This growth was driven by an increase in orders for high-value-added eco-friendly ships and improved production efficiency. Operating profit also surged by 408% compared to the previous year, totaling 1.4341 trillion KRW, thanks to a selective order strategy focused on profitability. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, a subsidiary of HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore, recorded revenue of 14.4865 trillion KRW and operating profit of 705.2 billion KRW. HD Hyundai Samho and HD Hyundai Mipo also posted strong results, with revenues of 7.0031 trillion KRW and 4.63 trillion KRW, respectively, and operating profits of 723.6 billion KRW and 88.5 billion KRW. HD Hyundai Marine Solutions recorded revenue of 1.7455 trillion KRW, a 22% increase compared to the previous year, driven by strong orders in its core ship parts service business (AM) and expansion in digital control businesses such as smart ship operation management and automation solutions. Operating profit also grew by 34.8% to reach 271.7 billion KRW. HD Hyundai Marine Engine, which was newly integrated into the group last year, saw significant success with its strategy of expanding eco-friendly engine products. The company recorded revenue and operating profit of 315.8 billion KRW and 33.2 billion KRW, respectively, marking increases of 28.9% and 85.5% compared to the previous year. In the construction machinery segment, HD Hyundai Site Solutions saw a decline in both revenue and operating profit, recording 7.7731 trillion KRW and 432.4 billion KRW, respectively. This represents a decrease of 11.1% in revenue and 40.3% in operating profit due to the exceptional boom caused by infrastructure investments in major countries in 2023, as well as the impact of the global economic downturn. In the energy segment, HD Hyundai Oilbank achieved revenue of 30.4686 trillion KRW, a 8.4% increase compared to the previous year, thanks to the expansion of eco-friendly fuel supply and plant operation efficiency improvements. However, operating profit dropped by 58.2%, totaling 258 billion KRW. HD Hyundai Electric recorded revenue of 3.3223 trillion KRW and operating profit of 669 billion KRW, driven by increased demand for power equipment due to the expansion of global data centers and the spread of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The company also benefited from a selective order strategy that improved profitability. HD Hyundai Electric plans to continue its strong performance by expanding its production capacity for 765kV ultra-high voltage transformers through the construction of new factories, including one on existing sites in Ulsan and a second factory at its Alabama branch in the U.S. A spokesperson from HD Hyundai stated, "Given the increasing external uncertainties, we will focus on a profitability-oriented strategy across all business areas this year based on a stable business portfolio. With strong performance continuing in the shipbuilding and power equipment sectors, we will maintain our growth momentum through the development of eco-friendly technologies and maximizing production efficiency." ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-06 15:21:16 메트로신문 기자

"The Era of Speaking AI"…Voice AI Gaining Attention Again…Why?

As artificial intelligence (AI) technology evolves from text-based to multimodal environments, voice AI is gaining renewed attention. Major information technology (IT) companies such as Apple, Naver, and Kakao are enhancing their voice AI technology and expanding its applications beyond smartphones to include vehicles, home appliances, and media platforms. Multimodal refers to the integration of various AIs, including text, images, and voice, for a more comprehensive and interactive user experience. According to market research firm Mordor Intelligence on the 5th, the global voice AI market is expected to grow nearly threefold, from 20 trillion KRW in 2024 to 56 trillion KRW by 2029. Gartner analyzed, "As voice recognition and natural conversation capabilities are integrated, user experience has significantly improved, leading to a sharp increase in demand." ◆ 'Open-source vs Closed-system'... The Battle for Dominance in Voice AI Intensifies As the voice AI market rapidly grows, the competition for technological dominance is intensifying. Currently, the AI industry is divided into two paradigms. One is the open-source AI camp. Companies like Meta, Mozilla, Qtai, and Coqui are accelerating the spread of technology by releasing their AI voice technologies as open-source. Meta is strengthening its open-source technology through "MMS," which can recognize and generate over 4,000 languages. MMS can learn from data without the need for labeled training tags. The AI research institute "Qtai," often referred to as France's OpenAI, recently unveiled a voice AI called "Moshi." Moshi operates without an internet connection and generates speech in just 0.2 seconds. In contrast, big tech companies like OpenAI, Google, and Apple continue to maintain closed models, building their own independent ecosystems. Google launched its voice AI "Gemini 2.0" in December last year, which enhances multimodal capabilities. It is optimized for mobile environments, including smartphones, and offers 10 different voices, allowing users to choose the tone and style. OpenAI also released the "Voice Mode" for ChatGPT in December, which improved the use of 50 languages, including Korean and Japanese. It features voice speed control and speaker emotion recognition, enabling more natural conversations. ◆ Naver, Kakao, and Other Domestic Companies Also Busy Strengthening Features Apple also plans to integrate ChatGPT into its voice AI, Siri. Beta testing is underway, and some features are expected to be officially launched in 2025. This integration is expected to provide a more natural and sophisticated voice interface across HomePod, iPhone, and macOS. An industry insider commented, "While open-source models increase technological accessibility and spread quickly, closed models focus on delivering powerful performance and differentiated features." He added, "Each has its strengths, and the choice will depend on the preferences of companies and consumers." In particular, China's AI startup Deepseek is emerging as a key player expanding the open-source AI ecosystem. Earlier this year, Deepseek released the AI inference model "R1" along with its voice AI "Deepseek Voice." It can process both text and voice simultaneously and operate without an internet connection, making it highly applicable to various devices such as smartphones, in-car AI systems, and smart homes. Domestic companies are also moving quickly in the voice AI market. Naver is enhancing its capabilities by adding new features, such as an information search assistant, to its AI chatbot "Clova X." Kakao is developing the AI voice assistant "Kanana," which is scheduled for release in the first half of this year. Kanana will be available in two versions: the personal AI "Nana" and the group-chat AI "Kana." Nana will engage in one-on-one conversations and offer personalized responses by remembering group chat content, while Kana will specialize in group chats, providing features such as quiz creation, answer scoring, and summaries. Additionally, Kakao's "Kakao i" voice assistant is currently integrated with KakaoT, shopping, and banking services. ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-05 16:43:17 메트로신문 기자

Industry anticipates fierce management disputes ahead of next month's shareholder meetings.

As the season for regular shareholder meetings of December closing companies approaches, the battle for control between competing companies is intensifying. In particular, disputes over corporate control among publicly listed companies are increasing, and the nature of these conflicts is becoming more intense. In addition to the ongoing management dispute between Korea Zinc and Youngpoong, which marks the end of a decades-long partnership, some companies are expected to engage in even fiercer shareholder battles over management control, with key business decisions likely to be contested. According to industry sources on the 5th, the most attention-grabbing corporate control battle during this year’s shareholder meeting season is between Korea Zinc and its competitors. The management struggle for the world’s top non-ferrous metals company has been full of twists, with Chairman Choi Yun-beom of Korea Zinc facing off against Youngpoong and MBK in an ongoing conflict. The movements of Daemyung Sonogroup and Yerimdang regarding the management rights of T’way Air are also noteworthy. Daemyung Sonogroup became the second-largest shareholder of T’way Air by purchasing shares held by JKL Partners since July last year. The gap in shareholding with the largest shareholder, Yerimdang, is only 3.3 percentage points. In 2025, Daemyung Sonogroup is expected to intensify its efforts to secure management control, increasing pressure significantly. As the management dispute between the siblings of Ourhome, the second-largest foodservice company in South Korea, intensifies, Kim Dong-sun, the third son of the Hanwha Group, and the vice president of Hanwha Galleria and Hanwha Hotels & Resorts, has entered the race to acquire management control. Hanwha, which sold its foodservice and food ingredients division, Foodist, to a private equity fund in 2020, is re-entering the foodservice market because it is considered a lucrative industry. The significant increase in management disputes is due to several factors, including the dilution of ownership stakes after the second-generation leadership, the growing presence of private equity funds, the rise in individual shareholders, and the increase in activist funds. In terms of actual shareholding, the Youngpoong-MBK alliance holds 40.97%, while Chairman Choi's side, including friendly shares, holds 34.35%, giving the Youngpoong-MBK alliance a higher stake. The fundamental issue is that the ownership stake of the controlling owner is weak, which means that whenever the "partnership spirit" is shaken, disputes can arise at any time. The situation is further complicated as private equity funds with significant capital have entered the management control dispute, shifting the dynamics. In South Korea, as ownership control has shifted from family-owned management to private equity funds, companies have faced confusion not only over their management philosophy but also over their identity. Private equity funds typically operate on a 5-year investment cycle, aiming to return profits and invested capital to their investors. As a result, they tend to focus on short-term profit expansion through workforce restructuring and asset sales. MBK promised in 2023 that it would "hold ING Life for over 10 years to stabilize employment" after acquiring the company. However, less than a year later, MBK carried out large-scale workforce reductions and sold the company after making a 2 trillion KRW profit in just five years. Similarly, when MBK acquired Homeplus in 2015, it had promised to invest 1 trillion KRW, but instead carried out store closures and workforce restructuring. Some companies have experienced the "curse of victory" after going through management disputes. In the competition for the acquisition of SM Entertainment in 2023, Kakao emerged victorious over HYBE. However, Kakao suffered significant damage during the process, including the arrest and indictment of founder Kim Beom-su. In the case of Korea & Company (Hankook Tire), which underwent a sibling management dispute last year with MBK's involvement, investors also faced losses. The stock price, which had typically ranged around 13,000 to 14,000 KRW, soared to around 22,000 KRW, but after a failed public tender offer, the price dropped back to around 15,000 KRW. It is reported that individual investors incurred substantial losses during this time. Hanjin Group also went through a management dispute, but the current management ultimately triumphed. However, during the dispute process, important decisions, such as future investments, were delayed, leading to growing pains for the company. ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-05 16:38:26 메트로신문 기자

"1 million KRW each?" The automotive industry drastically lowers electric vehicle prices... A bold move as the EV chasm persists.

Global automakers are launching various promotions in line with the South Korean government's electric vehicle (EV) support policies. As the electric vehicle market faces a prolonged "EV chasm" (temporary demand stagnation) due to issues such as charging infrastructure and price burdens, automakers are focusing on aggressive pricing strategies to secure a dominant position in the eco-friendly vehicle market. According to the automotive industry on February 5, Hyundai and Kia are running promotions offering additional discounts on their EV models. Hyundai’s promotion offers additional discounts ranging from 3 million to 5 million KRW on nine electric vehicle models, combining basic vehicle price reductions with monthly inventory discounts. Genesis offers a 3 million KRW discount on the GV60 and a 5% price reduction on the G80 electric model. In Seoul, applying these maximum purchase benefits, the following models see significant price reductions: ▲The Ioniq 5 2WD Long Range 19-inch Built-in Cam (non-applicable model) drops from 54.1 million KRW to 44.38 million KRW. ▲The Ioniq 6 2WD Standard 18-inch model drops from 46.95 million KRW to 37.81 million KRW. ▲The Kona Electric 2WD Standard 17-inch model drops from 41.42 million KRW to 31.52 million KRW. Kia is also offering manufacturer discounts through its "EV Festa" campaign: ▲2 million KRW off the Niro EV ▲1.5 million KRW off the EV6 ▲2.5 million KRW off the EV9 ▲3.5 million KRW off the Bongo EV Additionally, there are extra discounts for last year’s production models, with benefits ranging from 3.5 million to 5 million KRW depending on the vehicle. In Seoul, the prices for certain models drop as follows: ▲The EV6 2WD 19-inch Long Range trim goes from 50.6 million KRW to 40.58 million KRW ▲The EV9 2WD 19-inch Air trim drops from 73.37 million KRW to 65.6 million KRW ▲The Niro EV Air trim drops from 48.55 million KRW to 38.43 million KRW ▲The Bongo EV 1-ton 2WD Super Long King Cab Smart Selection trim drops from 43.15 million KRW to 24.5 million KRW KG Mobility (KGM) is also offering price discounts on electric vehicles. KGM is providing a 750,000 KRW discount on the electric SUV, the Torres EVX, bringing its actual purchase price down to around 39 million KRW. Additionally, for the taxi-exclusive models of the Torres EVX and the Korando EV, discounts of 1.5 million KRW and 1 million KRW, respectively, are being offered. The imported car industry is also focusing on expanding its market share in South Korea’s electric vehicle market. Volvo Car Korea launched its compact electric SUV, the EX30, on February 3, priced at just over 40 million KRW (after applying national and local government electric vehicle subsidies), which is one of the lowest prices globally. The company aims to attract initial sales by leveraging the new car effect and a maximum discount of 3.33 million KRW to enhance its price competitiveness. Stellantis Korea is taking proactive steps this month to reduce customers' burden by providing early electric vehicle subsidies, aiming to eliminate uncertainty surrounding EV purchases. Until the 28th, customers purchasing the Jeep Avenger or Peugeot e-2008 will receive both the expected national subsidy of 2.12 million KRW and 2.09 million KRW, respectively, along with additional local government subsidies based on their residence. Furthermore, by combining each brand's electric vehicle promotions with benefits such as free installation of a black box and Hi-Pass devices, the Jeep Avenger offers a minimum of 5.39 million KRW in benefits, and the Peugeot e-2008 offers a minimum of 7.86 million KRW. For customers in Gwangju, the city with the largest subsidy among metropolitan cities, the expected benefits for the Peugeot e-2008 and Jeep Avenger Altitude are 10.26 million KRW and 7.79 million KRW, respectively. BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle company that entered the domestic market earlier this year, has priced its compact electric SUV, the Atto 3, lower than in the Chinese market. The price of the Atto 3 ranges from 31.5 million KRW to 33.3 million KRW, and with the application of electric vehicle purchase subsidies, it is expected that the price could drop to the 20 million KRW range. If additional discounts are implemented in line with the South Korean government's policies, consumers' financial burdens would be significantly reduced. An automotive industry insider commented, "Automakers are expanding electric vehicle subsidy support in line with government policies," and expressed hope that proactive subsidy support would provide consumers with a wider range of choices. ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-05 16:32:26 메트로신문 기자

OpenAI accelerates South Korea alliances… Relay meetings with domestic corporate leaders including Lee Jae-yong.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, who is visiting South Korea, held a series of meetings on the 4th with the CEOs of major IT companies such as Samsung Electronics, SK hynix, and Kakao. The active pursuit of alliances with domestic companies by OpenAI is seen as a response to the Chinese AI startup DeepSeek. Recently, DeepSeek has suggested that high-performance models can be implemented at a low cost, shaking up the AI ecosystem. According to business sources on the 4th, Sam Altman began a "trilateral meeting" in the afternoon at Samsung Electronics' Seocho headquarters in Gangnam, Seoul, with Lee Jae-yong, Chairman of Samsung Electronics, and Masayoshi Son, Chairman of SoftBank Group. It is reported that the discussions focused on the implementation of the large-scale artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure project, 'Stargate.' Chairman Son arrived in the afternoon at 2:40 PM, after entering the country earlier in the morning. Prior to Son's arrival, CEO Altman was reportedly already at the Seocho headquarters. Also present at the meeting were executives responsible for semiconductors, including Jeon Young-hyun, Vice Chairman and Head of Samsung Electronics' Device Solutions (DS) division. Chairman Son, speaking with the press, stated that the "trilateral meeting with Samsung Electronics and OpenAI" would focus on updates regarding the Stargate project and potential collaborations with the Samsung Group. Stargate is a large-scale artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure expansion project in the U.S., involving an investment of $500 billion (approximately 731 trillion won), with partners such as NVIDIA and Microsoft. Earlier, it was reported that CEO Altman and Chairman Son had collaborated on establishing a joint venture, 'Stargate,' for AI infrastructure development. It is expected that Samsung Electronics will also participate in this project. This trilateral meeting is particularly significant as it marks Lee Jae-yong's first public engagement since his acquittal in the appeals trial, and discussions likely covered not only large-scale investments but also potential future growth drivers to help Samsung Electronics overcome its recent performance slump. There are forecasts that cooperation between OpenAI and ARM, a subsidiary of SoftBank, in AI semiconductor development will gain momentum. Earlier in the day, CEO Altman also met with Chey Tae-won, Chairman of SK Group, to discuss potential collaboration between the two companies and attended Kakao's Media Day. The meeting between CEO Altman and Chairman Chey took place around 9:30 AM at the Plaza Hotel in Jung-gu, Seoul. Among the SK Group executives in attendance were Kwak Noh-jeong, President of SK hynix, and Yoo Young-sang, President of SK Telecom. It is observed that CEO Altman and Chairman Chey discussed collaborations in the semiconductor field, including SK hynix's HBM (high-bandwidth memory), as well as AI assistant services. This meeting marks the third encounter between the two companies, following their previous meetings in January and June of last year. In June, they met at OpenAI's headquarters in San Francisco. After the meeting with Chairman Chey, when asked by the press, "How was today's meeting?" CEO Altman responded with "Wonderful" and left, while Chairman Chey did not make any special remarks. Following his meeting with Chairman Chey, CEO Altman appeared at Kakao's Media Day. During this event, OpenAI announced a strategic partnership with Kakao and outlined plans for collaboration in the AI business. CEO Altman's appearance at the Media Day and the strategic partnership between Kakao and OpenAI were kept highly confidential until the event. Kakao is the first company in South Korea to form a strategic partnership with OpenAI. The focus of the collaboration between Kakao and OpenAI will be on making AI services more accessible to a wider range of users, with plans to pursue ▲technical cooperation for AI service advancement and ▲joint product development. Jung Ji-young, CEO of Kakao, explained the background of the partnership during the keynote speech, stating, "Based on the capabilities we have accumulated over a long period of time, serving the daily lives of many people, Kakao's role in today's era is to present 'personalized AI that best understands users.'" She added, "By collaborating with OpenAI, which has global technological competitiveness, we will lead the popularization of AI services and provide innovative customer experiences." Altman, CEO of OpenAI, expressed his long-term appreciation for Kakao, stating, "I like Kakao from a long-term perspective and share their AI vision." He also mentioned, "I am particularly interested in the integration of AI and messaging. There is much to explore in this area, and messaging has a wide range of applications, not just for work-related matters." Meanwhile, Altman's expansive moves appear to be in response to the rapid pursuit of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI startup. Recently, DeepSeek adopted optimization techniques to maximize efficiency, suggesting that implementing high-performance models might not necessarily require overwhelming computing resources, which shocked the industry. There is growing analysis that DeepSeek's open-source model could broaden market competition, providing opportunities for latecomers, including those in South Korea. Observers speculate that OpenAI is pursuing an aggressive strategy to stay ahead of DeepSeek through extensive collaborations with domestic companies such as Samsung, SK, and Kakao. ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.

2025-02-04 16:41:25 메트로신문 기자

메트로人

머니

산업

IT·과학

정치＆정책

생활경제

사회

에듀＆JOB

기획연재

오피니언

라이프

AI영상

플러스

독자서비스

포럼＆컨퍼런스

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