Exports Surge: South Korea’s June exports jumped 70.9% to a record $102.25B, topping $100B for the first time as semiconductor shipments hit new highs. Markets Mood: Seoul stocks swung after a chip-led rally, with KOSPI down sharply mid-morning as investors weighed AI concentration risks and tech volatility. Crypto Crackdown: The Financial Services Commission referred two crypto manipulation cases to prosecutors, including a “whale” accused of cornering up to half of a token’s supply and inflating prices, plus alleged short-term “kimchi coin” schemes. Tech Regulation: The Korea Fair Trade Commission accused Google of abusing Android app-market dominance via “Project Hug,” potentially targeting rivals and app developers’ distribution choices. Defense & Security: Seoul revised a military radio upgrade to use NATO-standard SATURN waveform later (completion pushed to 2032) due to US security limits; it also reviewed progress on OPCON transfer conditions. North Korea Ties: Kim Jong Un pledged deeper ties with China, while a Russia–North Korea road bridge opening looks delayed as Russian-side work remains incomplete. Sports Fallout: South Korea’s World Cup team returned to boos at Incheon, with fans demanding coach Hong Myung-bo’s removal; the president also ordered a probe into the exit. Energy & Culture: Korea awarded 1.786GW of offshore wind projects in 2026’s first auction; Seoul expanded free wedding and cultural programs in historic hanok properties.