Finance

Banks rush to launch ELD products as regulator keeps watch

South Korean banks are rolling out equity-linked deposits (ELDs) as falling deposit rates and a strong stock market lift demand for alternatives to fixed-term deposits. The Financial Supervisory Service is looking closely at sales practices as ELD issuance rises. It says returns can vary widely with index moves, some products may lock in low rates due to knock-out options, and early termination can bring fees. Authorities are urging stronger oversight and clearer explanations to consumers.

Telecommunications & Media

LG Uplus faces trust risk test as rival security incident windfall fades

LG Uplus, which benefited from subscriber gains after security incidents at rivals, now faces controversy over its subscriber identity module number (IMSI) design and growing calls to waive contract termination fees. The company is accused of discarding and reinstalling a server suspected of being hacked, hampering forensic probes, and police have escalated their investigation. LG Uplus is expanding security measures, while civic groups and lawmakers press for user protections.