Core Insights - The article highlights the supportive atmosphere surrounding South Korea's college entrance exam, with convenience stores playing a significant role in providing essential items and "cheering" products for students [1][2] Group 1: Sales Data - Convenience store sales data indicates a notable increase in the sales of exam-related stationery during the exam season, with a 38.2% rise in sales from November 1 to 7 compared to two weeks prior [1] - Specific increases in stationery items include signature pens (up 86.6%), correction tape (up 49.3%), and ballpoint pens (up 39.9%) [1] - "Cheering" food items also saw significant sales growth, with rice cakes increasing by 22.7%, energy drinks by 26%, and hand warmers by 53.8% [1] Group 2: Cultural Significance - The phenomenon reflects South Korean society's special attention to the college entrance exam as a pivotal life event, with convenience stores serving as a bridge for communication between young people and their families [2] - Stationery and food items have transformed from mere daily necessities to symbols of familial expectations, social care, and encouragement for students [2] - The "cheering" culture fosters interaction among young people, with students exchanging supportive food items and sharing motivational photos on social media, creating a unique campus culture [2]

Group 1 - The fifth Korea (Shandong) Import Goods Expo took place from May 23 to 26 in Weihai, showcasing 11 companies from Incheon with products ranging from rice cakes to natural cosmetics and kitchenware, resulting in over 150 business negotiations and an intended trade volume of 17.5 million yuan [1][2] - The Incheon Economic and Trade Representative Office, established in Weihai in 2016, operated a 198 square meter booth, promoting products, investment environment, and cultural experiences, particularly highlighting Korean food experiences that attracted significant visitor interest [1][2] - To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the China-Korea Free Trade Agreement, a B2B negotiation meeting was held, facilitating further business discussions and potential market entry for Incheon companies into China [1][2] Group 2 - A tripartite memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between the Incheon Economic and Trade Representative Office, the Korea Institute of Production Technology, and the Weihai Foreign Investment Enterprises Association to enhance technical cooperation and collaborative business development for Incheon companies [2] - Incheon companies expressed optimism about entering the Chinese market, with active discussions during the expo indicating strong potential for future exports [2] - Incheon city plans to leverage the expo as a catalyst for expanding market access and strengthening its brand globally, focusing on overseas marketing initiatives [2]