Games & Commerce

Naver hit by investment burden, Kakao aided by cost stability as Q3 outlook diverges

Naver and Kakao are expected to post divergent third-quarter results. Naver is forecast to log double-digit revenue growth but a drop in operating profit due to heavier spending on AI infrastructure, commerce and marketing. Kakao is seen posting a slight revenue decline but a double-digit rise in operating profit on relatively stable costs. Analysts say investors will focus on whether each company can translate AI initiatives into concrete products, contracts and revenue.

Finance

Financial sector hacking spreads, delays gain support for digital asset tax postponement

A string of hacking incidents in South Korea’s financial sector has led to confirmed personal data leaks at savings banks and mutual finance groups, prompting authorities to step up inspections and security requirements. Banks are moving to raise cybersecurity spending and expand fraud prevention systems using AI. Market volatility and a steep stock selloff also drew a policy response. Political debate intensified over postponing digital asset taxation and regulating exchange shareholders.