Changes in Domestic and International Politics and Economy: From Presidential Approval Ratings to Labor News
President Lee Jae-myung's job performance approval rating was recorded at 59.1%. Although this figure has slightly decreased for two consecutive weeks, it remains at a high level. This survey, released two days before the local elections, clearly demonstrates the public's level of support for the current government.
Candidate Kim Kwan-young, running as an independent for Governor of Jeonbuk Province, claimed that the Lee Jae-myung administration would become stronger only if he is elected. He has been active as an independent after being expelled from the Democratic Party over allegations of cash distribution, and he showed strong confidence by stating that Democratic Party Representative Jung Cheong-rae should resign if he wins.
The Samsung Electronics labor union has been negotiating with the company while threatening a strike over the issue of performance bonuses. Amid recent assessments that the union has achieved a tentative victory, a shareholder group raised its voice in criticism, stating that the political circle is remaining silent regarding the issue of Samsung Electronics' illegal dividends. They argued that the National Assembly and political parties should pay more attention to fair corporate operations and shareholder rights.
The Kakao labor union is also taking collective action. The Kakao union announced that it plans to hold a partial strike for four hours on the 10th. The union added that it is aware of users' concerns that KakaoTalk services might be interrupted due to this strike and will take care to ensure that no major disruptions occur to the service.
Positive analysis has emerged from the international energy market. According to JP Morgan, despite the unstable situation in the Middle East, the world is adapting without major disruptions by using 9% less crude oil than before. However, unfortunate news came from China. A recent explosion at a coal mine in China, the worst in 15 years, has led to points being raised that dark accidents of the past are being repeated amidst efforts to transition to eco-friendly energy.
In the media industry, Kwon Tae-sun, chairperson of the Foundation for Broadcast Culture, has been cleared of "audit obstruction" charges after three years. The police issued a decision of no charges against Chairperson Kwon. Accordingly, discussions are expected to begin regarding what responsibility the Board of Audit and Inspection and the Korea Communications Commission, which had pushed ahead with the audit, will take for this outcome.
Finally, news from the financial market. The KOSPI index rose significantly to 8,476.15, while the KOSDAQ fell to 1,074.80, showing a mixed performance. The won-dollar exchange rate was recorded at 1,504.70 won, rising slightly, and the 3-year government bond yield stood in the 3.7% range, reflecting market volatility.