Stories from Seoul · South Korea

China has emerged as the leader in global AI patent filings. China is leading globally in AI patents, with over 80% of union members planning a general strike on the 20th. The country's AI patent filings are significantly higher than other nations.

Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix are leading a charge in the semiconductor sector, with AI driving growth. Shares in semiconductor companies have seen a surge, with sales increasing by 79% year-over-year.

Four Hanwha Group companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with HMM and KR to develop zero-carbon ship systems. The agreement involves Hanwha Power Systems, Hanwha Ocean, Hanwha Aerospace, and Hanwha System.

Samsung has reached a market capitalization of $1 trillion, becoming the tenth mega-multi-national corporation to achieve this valuation. It joins other tech giants like Nvidia, TSMC, Broadcom, and Apple, which was the first to reach this milestone in August 2018.

Radio Svoboda reported on impressions from the Berlin Book Fair, highlighting the beauty of the art and the interest in new books. The work of a specific individual, Virlaq, was noted.

Scott Bessent plans to visit Seoul in preparation for a summit between Trump and Xi. This visit is part of diplomatic efforts leading up to the high-level meeting.

The Daechi Eunma Apartment complex in Gangnam has initiated its reconstruction project, holding a business execution approval general meeting in May.

Twenty-eight endangered turtles, intercepted during an attempted smuggling operation into South Korea, have been returned to their native Vietnam. The turtles were rescued and are now being repatriated.

Following a rise in violent crimes, Seoul has seen a increase in applications for its portable emergency bell system, 'Ansim Help Me'. Since its introduction in 2024, over 110,000 applications have been received.

Samsung Electronics labor and management are engaged in negotiations today. Failure to reach an agreement could result in a loss of 40 trillion won. The outcome is seen as make-or-break for the company.