Warnings are growing that South Korea is shifting toward an economy led by a single semiconductor sector, similar to Taiwan. Record chip exports driven by AI demand are lifting potential growth forecasts and per-capita GDP projections. But analysts say gains are concentrating in Samsung Electronics and SK hynix as they handle production and packaging in-house. That could widen the gap between headline indicators and felt conditions, with institutions also warning of structural risks and weaker non-chip manufacturing.

Woori Financial Group opened its second Goodwill Store workplace for people with developmental disabilities in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province. The new Milal Cheongju Heungdeok branch opened about a year after the Cheongju Sangdang branch. Woori Financial Future Foundation said it held an opening ceremony on Oct. 15. The store is the 18th nationwide backed by Woori. The group is also running donation drives through collection boxes at branches and an October campaign on its WooriWON Banking app.