Seoul:SK hynix Inc. announced on Wednesday that it has achieved record-high revenue and operating profit in the third quarter, driven by strong demand for memory chips amidst a surge in artificial intelligence applications. The company also revealed a shareholder return program valued at over 100 trillion won (US$75.3 billion) set for 2026.
According to Yonhap News Agency, SK hynix's operating profit skyrocketed by 557.2 percent from the previous year, reaching 83.33 trillion won during the July-September period. The company's revenue also saw a significant increase, rising by 327.9 percent year-on-year to 104.61 trillion won, as detailed in their regulatory filing.
In a separate development, two former U.S. Forces Korea commanders have expressed concerns regarding the possible implications of the envisioned wartime operational control transfer. They warned that the transfer could potentially weaken the South Korea-U.S. alliance and military effectiveness if a robust combined command structure is not maintained.
Additionally, several South Korean financial firms, including Daishin Securities and Mirae Asset Global Investments, reported data breaches involving customer information. Daishin Securities disclosed that the personal data of 38,490 customers was compromised.
Meanwhile, a special counsel team initiated an inspection of ballot papers stored at a handball arena in Seoul, as part of an investigation into a ballot shortage during the June 3 local elections. The team is examining 2.47 million ballots and other relevant materials for irregularities.
President Lee Jae Myung issued a warning against "irresponsible extremism" that could jeopardize reform efforts. He made these remarks on the social platform X in response to criticism.
Furthermore, the South Korean government plans to mandate that businesses with 100 or more employees deposit severance funds with financial institutions by 2028 to prevent nonpayment. The Ministry of Finance and Economy discussed this initiative during a meeting of economy- and science-related ministers, aiming for businesses to begin preparations in 2027.