AI Chip Surge: SK hynix just crossed the $1 trillion market cap mark, jumping about 11% as AI-driven memory demand keeps squeezing supply and lifting the whole East Asian tech complex. Labor-Deal Shockwave: Samsung’s union approved a major profit-sharing deal, helping avert a strike and fueling fresh bonus expectations across Korea’s chip ecosystem. Government Blueprint: Seoul kicked off a 2045 Strategy Committee to map long-term fixes for aging, polarization, climate risk, and tech competition—starting with big AI infrastructure funding. Defense Tech Escalation: North Korea reported tests of AI-guided tactical cruise missiles and other frontline systems under Kim Jong Un, while South Korea pushes ahead with plans for its first nuclear-powered submarine by the mid-2030s. Market Mood: Asian shares mostly rose as Wall Street hit records, even as oil volatility tied to the Iran conflict continues to hover over inflation fears. Cyber/Trust Stress: Authorities arrested a YouTuber over alleged AI-fabricated claims against actor Kim Soo-hyun, spotlighting how fast synthetic content can turn into real-world damage.