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Finance

Second phase of public agency relocations raises tension in South Korea's financial sector

South Korea is stepping up discussions on a second phase of relocating public agencies out of the Seoul area, raising the possibility that major financial institutions, including policy lenders, could be moved. The government is considering selecting targets through a full survey and pursuing phased relocations from as early as 2027. The financial sector is watching whether Korea Development Bank is included. The finance union is calling for the plan to be halted and has launched a joint task force.

Industry

AI demand reshapes semiconductor cycle

The semiconductor market’s supply-demand structure is changing as AI demand accelerates. General-purpose DRAM contract prices are expected to jump 90 to 95 percent in the first quarter, with customers prioritising securing volumes despite rising prices. TrendForce data show strong revenue and price gains in the fourth quarter. Analysts say AI investment is spreading from AI servers to general servers and could drive long-term infrastructure spending, while supply constraints and HBM capacity needs limit output growth.

Industry

Ramen makers cut prices selectively as Shin Ramyun, Buldak and Jin Ramen excluded

Major South Korean ramen makers including Nongshim, Samyang Foods and Ottogi will cut prices on some products from next month, industry officials say. The cuts exclude flagship brands such as Nongshim’s Shin Ramyun, Samyang’s Buldak Bokkeum Myun and Ottogi’s Jin Ramen. Companies say the moves aim to support price stability, but critics say the impact will be limited because high-recognition, high-sales products were left out.