South Korea

Korea Herald | English | News | Dec. 12, 2025 | Shifting Geopolitical Alliances

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun reaffirmed Seoul’s commitment to strengthening the Korea-US alliance and bilateral cooperation during a meeting with the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) delegation in Seoul. He highlighted that the new administrations in both countries have swiftly advanced the alliance through two summits, aiming to build a “future-oriented strategic comprehensive alliance.”

Cho outlined plans to accelerate cooperation in key sectors such as nuclear energy, shipbuilding, and nuclear-powered submarines through enhanced communication at all levels, reflecting the shared vision of both nations’ leaders. He emphasized the intent to guide the alliance toward a mutually beneficial and future-focused path amid evolving global security and economic challenges.

The Foreign Minister also called on the NCAFP to continue promoting awareness of the alliance’s importance within US policy circles, acknowledging the think tank’s longstanding role in supporting stronger bilateral ties. Members of the NCAFP pledged ongoing support for efforts by both governments to deepen the alliance. The delegation included prominent figures from US government and academic circles specializing in diplomacy and Asia-Pacific security.

LG전자, 퀄컴과 미래 AIDV 시대 선도

ZD Net Korea | Local Language | News | Dec. 12, 2025 | UndeterminedTech Development/Adoption

LG Electronics, in collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, has developed a generative AI-based high-performance computing device (HPC) for vehicles, advancing the AI-centered vehicle (AIDV) era. This new technology, called the “AI Cabin Platform,” will be revealed to automaker customers for the first time at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, starting January 6. The AI Cabin Platform integrates various open-source generative AI models, including vision-language models, large language models, and image-generation models, to enhance in-vehicle infotainment and create a new experience for occupants.

The AI Cabin Platform is powered by Qualcomm’s “Snapdragon Cockpit Elite,” which enables all AI computations to be processed locally within the vehicle. This local processing ensures faster, more reliable operation and improved security by eliminating the need for communication with external AI servers, thereby reducing the risk of data leaks. The platform uses interior and exterior cameras to analyze the vehicle’s surroundings and occupant conditions, providing context-appropriate guidance and customized images.

Earlier, at CES 2025, LG and Qualcomm showcased an HPC platform integrating infotainment and advanced driver-assistance systems using Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Ride Flex system-on-chip, recognized for its cost and performance benefits. Eun Seok-hyun, LG Electronics’ Vice President and head of the VS Business Division, emphasized the company’s commitment to leading the transition from software-defined vehicles (SDV) to AI-centered vehicles (AIDV) through strengthened global partnerships.

Joongang Ilbo | English | News | Dec. 12, 2025 | UndeterminedFinancial System Problems

In November 2025, overall household loan growth in South Korea slowed to an increase of 4.1 trillion won compared to 4.9 trillion won in October, driven by tighter banking regulations and a government-imposed annual cap. However, nonbank institutions such as insurance companies, mutual finance firms, and credit card companies saw a significant surge in lending, rising by 64 percent from 1.4 trillion won to 2.3 trillion won. Mutual finance firms contributed 1.4 trillion won to this growth, with insurers adding 500 billion won.

The slowdown was especially pronounced in bank-issued mortgage loans, which fell from 2 trillion won in October to 700 billion won in November, the lowest since March 2022. In contrast, mortgage loans from nonbank institutions increased sharply from 1.2 trillion won to 1.9 trillion won, fueled by strong demand in Seoul and surrounding real estate markets. While regulatory measures have slowed housing price increases overall, some key areas continue to experience steady or rising prices.

Other loan categories, including unsecured loans, also grew, reaching 1.2 trillion won in November, supported by increased investment activity in domestic and overseas stock markets, although volatility concerns remain. Financial authorities postponed the third phase of the stress debt service ratio (DSR) regulation for home loans in nonmetropolitan areas by six months, allowing existing, less stringent rules to apply through June 2026 due to sluggish housing markets outside the capital region. The stress DSR applies a hypothetical higher interest rate to ensure borrowers’ ability to repay under adverse conditions, helping to maintain financial stability.