[This Week's Books] "Apple in China" and More

Apple in China

The author, a Financial Times journalist dedicated to covering Apple, argues that Apple pulled the trigger in the US-China conflict. After five years of investigating Apple’s inner workings since 2019, he claims that the icon of innovation has become ensnared by the authoritarian state of China. The book explores how Apple came to depend on China for over 90% of its production, what China has gained and is aiming to gain from this relationship, and how the United States plans to respond. It also analyzes the impact of these developments on the global economy and on Apple’s partners and competitors, such as Samsung and LG. (Written by Patrick McGee | Influential)

Benjamin Graham's Security Analysis

This classic, first published in 1934 by Benjamin Graham-known as the 'father of value investing'-has been read for 90 years. Investment and economic terms and concepts widely used today, such as 'margin of safety,' 'intrinsic value,' 'the distinction between investment and speculation,' and 'the gap between market price and value,' were systematically organized in this book for the first time. The latest revised edition in 14 years includes analysis of recent economic conditions and changes in the business environment, such as the pandemic, inflation, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, as well as developments in the investment industry and the field of securities analysis. Praised by prominent figures including Warren Buffett, the book has sold over 1 million copies to date. (By Benjamin Graham and one other | Business Books)

Real Estate Trends 2026

"The rise of the real estate market in 2026 is so clear that it can be declared a certainty. The 'domino effect' of rising prices, starting in Gangnam and spreading to Gangbuk, will drive an upward trend across all of Seoul." This is the diagnosis of real estate expert and Seoul National University Professor Kim Kyungmin. As predicted last year, a combination of a supply cliff in the market, interest rate cuts, and surging rent and lease prices have caused the ripple effect of rising home prices in Gangnam to spread to mid- and low-priced areas in Gangbuk. The book provides a comprehensive analysis of both domestic and international factors affecting the real estate market, including the tariff war, inflation, polarization in the apartment market, and price trends in key regions. (By Kim Kyungmin and four others | Wisemap)

The Evolution of Convenience Stores

Japan has about 550,000 convenience stores, with a market size reaching 100 trillion won. There is hardly a place without a convenience store, but the beginnings were challenging. In the 1970s, the industry struggled with an unclear identity, and in the 2000s, it endured a stagnant period known as the 'cursed decade.' Focusing on Seven-Eleven, the book analyzes how the convenience store industry became a retail giant. It shares behind-the-scenes stories such as the birth of the 'triangle gimbap,' the formation of a food-based economic sphere, strategies for premium private brand products, and the failed attempts and revival of coffee and donuts. (Written by Nakamura Naofumi | Waterbear Press)

Life Trends 2026

This year’s life trend keywords are 'proof of humanity' and 'experiential luxury.' As artificial intelligence (AI) has deeply permeated everyday life, humanity now faces the challenge of proving its authenticity. In a world where people are falling for AI and virtual relationships, and fake news and fake social media accounts are on the rise, the book declares that attitudes and actions that express human qualities have become a weapon for differentiation. It also explains that unique experiences-such as travel, gourmet dining, and performances-are emerging as new forms of luxury. Because these cannot be replaced by AI, they are becoming increasingly valued. (Written by Kim Yongseop | Bookie)

KAIST Future Strategy 2026

As artificial intelligence (AI) evolves into both a powerful tool and a practical weapon, the world is closely watching the direction of AI. Shocked by China’s 'Deep Seek Shock,' the United States is accelerating its efforts to maintain technological superiority in AI. South Korea has also announced plans to invest 100 trillion won by 2030, aiming to become one of the world’s top three AI powers. Can Korea become an AI powerhouse? The author provides a broad perspective on how Korea’s economy, society, and culture are changing amid this competition for supremacy. The book also shares intriguing stories about AI politicians, the OpenAI mafia, and AI acquiring physical bodies. (KAIST Graduate School of Future Strategy, Future Strategy Research Center | Gimm-Young Publishers)