Semiconductor Mega-Bet: South Korea’s President Lee Jae-myung backed a massive AI-and-memory push, praising Samsung and SK Group leaders as “national heroes” as Samsung and SK hynix commit hundreds of billions of dollars to expand capacity and speed up new fabs. World Cup Fallout: At Incheon Airport, fans greeted the returning squad with “Hong out!” chants after coach Hong Myung-bo resigned following South Korea’s shock group-stage exit; captain Son Heung-min apologized, saying he’s “indescribably hurt” and vows to “win the hearts” again. Space Program Pause: South Korea indefinitely postponed the next test launch of its solid-fuel “Mir” rocket after safety issues surfaced during final preparations. EU Steel Terms: Seoul secured a smaller-than-expected cut to its tariff-free steel quota as the EU reduced overall volumes, with Korea still getting dedicated access for exports. Energy & Industry: A KHNP-led consortium was picked as preferred bidder for an 800MW Jeonbuk offshore wind expansion phase, while Karpowership began construction of new-generation powerships. Diplomacy: South Korea and Ukraine held “constructive” talks on two North Korean soldiers captured in Russia, aiming for resolution under international law. Consumer/Tech Culture: Nintendo Switch 2 rumors point to a revised LCD panel supplier, and K-pop rookie group Hearts2Hearts faced lip-sync debate after a Busan festival performance.