Samsung tops S. Korea's brand rankings; SK hynix enters top 10

SEOUL, June 11 (Yonhap) -- Samsung Electronics Co. ranked as South Korea's most valuable brand this year, according to a report released by Interbrand on Thursday.

According to the global brand consultancy's Best Korea Brands 2026 report, Samsung's brand value was estimated at 113.26 trillion won (US$74.1 billion), down 7.4 percent from a year earlier, maintaining its position at the top among the country's 50 most valuable brands.

Interbrand evaluates brand value based on a comprehensive analysis of a company's financial performance, the influence of its brand on consumer purchasing decisions and its overall brand competitiveness.

Chipmaker SK hynix entered the top 10 for the first time, climbing four spots to ninth place from 13th a year earlier. Its brand value rose 34.8 percent on-year to 3.23 trillion won.

Top automaker Hyundai Motor Co. ranked second with a brand value of 30.75 trillion won, up 10.1 percent from a year earlier.

Its smaller affiliate Kia came in third with 10.68 trillion won, followed by LG Electronics Co. with 8.6 trillion won and portal giant Naver Corp. with 8.24 trillion won.

Global brand consultancy Interbrand's Best Korea Brands 2026 report (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)