LG Acquires Global Premium Automotive Lighting Company ZKW Group

An aerial view of the premium automotive lighting company ZKW Group’s Headquarters.

EUR 1.1 Billion Deal Largest in LG’s 60 Year History

SEOUL, Apr. 26, 2018 ― Earlier today, the Board of Directors of LG Electronics (LG) approved the acquisition of leading automotive lighting and headlight systems provider ZKW Group, capping a deal worth more than EUR 1.1 billion, LG’s largest acquisition to date. Under the terms of the transaction, LG Electronics will acquire a 70 percent stake in ZKW Group with parent company LG Corp. purchasing the remaining 30 percent.

The strategic merger is expected to result in synergies that allow the combined companies to lead the global lighting sector in autonomous vehicle components. Headquartered in the Lower Austrian town of Wieselburg, ZKW Group is a high-tech leader in automotive lighting systems with a presence in markets throughout Europe in addition to China, Mexico and the United States.

With revenues of EUR 1.26 billion in 2017 and an average annual sales growth rate of more than 20 percent over the past five years, ZKW products are found in many major European premium automotive brands including Audi, BMW, Porsche and Daimler, among others. ZKW’s offerings will complement LG’s growing Vehicle Components operations which expects the premium automotive lighting segment to expand faster than traditional auto lighting.

ZKW’s lighting business, which has focused on premium vehicle components and related accessories, will have a much greater market presence through LG’s extensive global sales network. As the industry transitions from traditional halogens to LEDs and lasers, ZKW sees itself in the enviable position of being only one of the first companies* worldwide that produces matrix LED headlamps and laser headlights. An industry innovator throughout its history, ZKW Group was an early investor in laser headlights. LG and ZKW will focus on developing intelligent lighting solutions that display high-resolution information and warnings on roads collected from sensors, including autonomous driving cameras and automotive communications

ZKW Group will continue to be managed by the current team led by CEO Oliver Schubert, who will be responsible for all operations around the world which includes more than 9,000 employees. LG is committed to maintaining ZKW’s autonomy and workplace culture. In particular, production in Austria will remain unchanged for at least five years.

“Through this deal, LG is adding a new growth opportunity to its automotive components business, a future growth opportunity with tremendous potential,” said Jo Seong-jin, chief executive officer of LG Electronics. “In addition to strengthening ZKW’s product development capabilities, LG’s global production experience and international business network will present unlimited opportunities for both companies in the auto market of tomorrow, which includes intelligent lighting solutions.”

LG’s Vehicle Components Company, which oversees the company’s automotive components business, recorded sales growth of 26 percent to USD 3.15 billion in 2017. The global automotive lighting market is expected to grow from USD 24.5 billion last year to USD 29 billion by 2020, with headlights contributing 70 percent of the total. Through this deal, LG is reinforcing its position as a leading player in automotive components and intends to expand the range of its automotive lighting business from rear lamps to related lighting products, such as headlights.

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*ZKW, Hella, AL, Koito

LG ANNOUNCES FIRST-QUARTER 2018 FINANCIAL RESULTS

A picture of LG Twin Towers in the daytime

Strong Home Appliance, Home Entertainment Results
Drive Highest First-Quarter Profitability Ever

SEOUL, Apr. 26, 2018 — LG Electronics Inc. (LG) today posted consolidated sales of KRW 15.12 trillion (USD 14.1 billion) and operating profit of KRW 1.11 trillion (USD 1.03 billion) for the first quarter of 2018. Sales rose 3.2 percent from the first quarter last year and operating income soared by more than 20 percent, representing the highest first-quarter profit and revenue in company history and the highest quarterly profitability since the second quarter of 2009.

Both the LG Home Appliance & Air Solution Company and the LG Home Entertainment Company reported their largest quarterly operating profit ever with each recording double-digit operation margins. This marks the first time in history that the combined profits of the company’s two largest business units exceeded KRW 1 trillion. At the same time, LG’s business-to-business operations also generated strong quarterly profitability, while losses from mobile communications and vehicle components narrowed in the quarter.

The LG Home Appliance & Air Solution Company posted revenues of KRW 4.92 trillion (USD 4.59 billion) and operating profit of KRW 553.1 billion (USD 515.51 million). Sales of products such as air conditioners and premium washing machines as well as new models of dryers, air purifiers and LG Styler units increased in the domestic Korean market while sales in Europe, Asia and Latin America together grew 9.3 percent from the same period in 2017. Operating profit rose 8.2 percent compared with the 2017 first quarter, thanks to higher sales of premium products and lower costs due to operating efficiencies. Demand is expected to increase in the second quarter as air conditioners and refrigerators enter the peak season in the northern hemisphere.

The LG Home Entertainment Company reported sales of KRW 4.12 trillion (USD 3.84 billion) and operating profit of KRW 577.3 billion (USD 538.07 million). Revenue grew 7.4 percent compared to the same quarter last year as sales of premium products such as LG OLED TVs and SUPER UHD TVs remained strong. First-quarter operating profit increased 76.5 percent in 2018 versus 2017 due to the popularity of high-end TVs and improved cost structure, resulting in the company’s first-ever double digit quarterly operating margin of 14 percent. In the second quarter, LG expects the global TV market to benefit from upcoming global sports events.

The LG Mobile Communications Company recorded sales of KRW 2.16 trillion (USD 2.01 billion) and operating loss of KRW 136.1 billion (USD 126.85 million). Sales declined from the same quarter last year due to a revised smartphone launch strategy. Despite component price increases, the company shrank its operating deficit by continuing to improve its business structure. While the global smartphone market is forecast to experience stagnant growth and more intense competition in the second quarter, LG expects to see positive results with the launch of the LG G7 ThinQ flagship phone and the opening of the Software Upgrade Center to deliver higher-quality customer support.

The LG Vehicle Components Company posted revenues of KRW 840 billion (USD 782.9 million) and an operating loss of KRW 17 billion (USD 15.84 million). Sales of automotive infotainment products declined modestly by 1 percent from the first quarter 2017 due to slower vehicle sales. Still, with the increasing automotive industry focus on electric and autonomous vehicles in North America and Europe, the longer-term outlook for LG remains bright. The company will continue to strengthen its automotive components business through strategic partnerships with key clients as well as greater collaboration with other LG companies.

The LG Business-to-Business Company generated sales of KRW 642.7 billion (USD 599 million) and operating profit of KRW 78.8 billion (USD 73.45 million) in its debut quarter. First-quarter revenues grew 24 percent from last year, driven by higher sales of large screen digital signage displays and high performance solar modules. Operating profit jumped 192 percent from the same period 2017 due to the growing popularity of premium commercial products such as LG OLED digital signage displays and improved cost competitiveness, trends continuing into the second quarter.

2018 1Q Exchange Rates Explained

LG Electronics’ unaudited quarterly earnings results are based on IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) for the three-month period ending March 31, 2018. Amounts in Korean won (KRW) are translated into U.S. dollars (USD) at the average rate of the three-month period of the corresponding quarter — KRW 1,072.91 per USD.

Earnings Conference and Conference Call

LG Electronics will hold an English language conference call on April 26, 2018 at 21:00 Korea Standard Time (12:00 GMT/UTC). Participants for the English conference call are instructed to call +82 31 810 3061 and enter the passcode 9084#. The corresponding presentation file will be available for download at the LG Electronics website (www.lg.com/global/ir/reports/earning-release.jsp) at approximately 16:00 on April 26, 2018. Visit http://pin.teletogether.com/eng and pre-register with the passcode provided. For those unable to participate, an audio recording of the news conference will be available for a period of 30 days after the conclusion of the call. To access the recording, dial +82 31 931 3100 and enter the passcode 142900# when prompted.

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INNOFEST SHOWS DAILY LIFE MADE EASIER WITH LG THINQ AI APPLIANCES

A female presenter explains about the LG ThinQ AI-enabled home appliances in front of attendees at LG InnoFest 2018.

After previous stops in Cape Town, South Africa and Cannes, France, LG Electronics is bringing its annual InnoFest roadshow to Asia from April 23-25, taking place at the new LG Science Park in Seoul, South Korea. Over 250 representatives from LG, its distribution/retail partners and members of the media from across the region are taking part in this year’s event, themed An Invitation to the AI Home That Thinks of You. This year, LG is showcasing a variety of AI-enabled appliances that are compatible with global platforms such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant which the VIP guests can experience for themselves in a natural home environment.

Every LG InnoFest event includes products that are specific to each region, localized to suit consumer tastes in local market. InnoFest Asia is also the first opportunity to showcase LG’s new Innovation Gallery at LG Science Park to an international audience, since its official opening this year. At the LG ThinQ Zone inside the Innovation Gallery, a mock living room, kitchen, bedroom, laundry room and bathroom display a variety of products embedded with AI technology. Visitors can not only see how AI-enabled products can improve everyday life for families, but also experience firsthand the latest industrial robots being developed by LG for airports, hotels and premium supermarkets.

In the mock living room, users can experience the voice recognition feature of the AI-enabled LG OLED TV to control the volume, change channels and more. Voice control of home appliances is also possible through the LG V30S ^ThinQphone and LG ThinQ speaker, both of which incorporate Google Assistant to handle tasks remotely from another part of the home.

Guests can experience LG’s home appliances for clothing care such as the TWINWash washing machine, dryer and Styler working together to make managing one’s wardrobe a breeze. They can also call up recipes based on the ingredients inside the AI refrigerator without ever opening the door to see what’s inside. InnoFest participants can then see how LG’s smart ovens automatically adjust the cooking setting after receiving the recipe from the refrigerator.

Taking intelligent appliances to a whole new level are LG’s three concept robot for serving food, transporting luggage and grocery shopping, on display in the LG CLOi Zone, named for LG’s robot brand. Still in development, these helper robots demonstrate the adaptability of robots in both the residential and commercial space. LG’s foray into commercial robots began with the Airport Guide Robots and Airport Cleaning Robots which were introduced to the public during a trial period at Incheon International Airport that started last July.

“LG InnoFest is the perfect opportunity to introduce our unique ThinQ AI-enabled products to our partners in key regions,” said Han Chang-hee, vice president of LG’s Global Marketing Center. “AI technology is fast becoming a part of our world but the realization of how fast this revolution is coming is still unrealized by many consumers. InnoFest allows us to bring our partners — who are engaging local customers on a daily basis — into the fold.”

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LG DEBUTS SIGNATURE KITCHEN SUITE IN EUROPE AT MILAN DESIGN WEEK 2018

A kitchen with SIGNATURE KITCHEN SUITE built-in appliances

LG Poised to Tap Into Lucrative European Market With Luxury Home Appliance Line

MILAN, Apr. 17, 2018 — On April 17, LG Electronics (LG) will unveil its luxury Signature Kitchen Suite for the first time to European consumers at the world’s largest design exhibition during Milano Design Week. To provide differentiated quality kitchen solutions, LG is collaborating with a number of luxury furniture brands that will also feature LG kitchen products in their exhibition space in Milan.

The Signature Kitchen Suite features all-new products designed to integrateseamlessly with existing kitchens specifically for the European market, including a no handle oven with the control panel on the body and an induction cooktop with a seven-inch LCD panel and black glass. The innovative oven sports advanced capabilities such as both steam and convection cooking for healthy as well as delicious meals, ProHeat™ to uniformly distribute heat throughout the oven, and Speed Clean™ for fast and easy cleaning of splatters and baked-on food residue. All Signature Kitchen Suite appliances boast Wi-Fi connectivity and SmartThinQ™ technology, an open platform that can control a wide range of devices in the home using a free Android and iOS app.

“We are extremely excited to be introducing Signature Kitchen Suite – our platinum brand of home appliances – at Milan Design Week,” said Song Dae-hyun, president of LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. “By increasing opportunities for consumers in Europe to directly experience our high-end products, we are confident that we can establish LG as a premium brand in the years to come.”

The design of Signature Kitchen Suite embodies a spirit of advanced craftsmanship, innovative performance, enhanced usability and premium service. In early April, the line’s Pro Range Oven was recognized as Best of the Best at the Red Dot Design Awards, one of the world’s top three honors in design along with the iF Design Awards and IDEA (International Design Excellence Awards).

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LG OPENS GLOBAL SOFTWARE UPGRADE CENTER FOR FASTER SMARTPHONE UPDATES

Investing Significant Resources Toward Extending Smartphone Lifespan

SEOUL, Apr. 12, 2018 — LG Electronics (LG) today opened the doors to its new Software Upgrade Center in South Korea, the first such facility aimed at providing customers worldwide with faster, timelier, smartphone operating system and software updates. Located in LG’s new research and development campus in Magok-dong, western Seoul, the Software Upgrade Center is just one of the ways LG is demonstrating its commitment to customers’ needs.

The Software Upgrade Center will not only be charged with developing and delivering regular OS updates for LG smartphones, it will also be responsible for ensuring a consistent user experience on LG devices by continuously testing the stability and compatibility between hardware and software after updates.

The creation of the center will enable LG to roll out OS updates faster in countries where LG smartphones are available to ensure that customers around the world receive the same level of quality service. One of the first initiatives of LG’s new Software Upgrade Center will be to roll out Android Oreo for the LG G6 later this month starting in Korea, followed by other key markets.

“Aligning after-sales support with customers’ needs is a top priority at LG,” said Mr. Jo Seong-jin, CEO of LG Electronics. “Stable and consistent upgrades will demonstrate to our customers that LG smartphones have long and reliable lifespans.”

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LG TO UNVEIL SEVENTH GENERATION G SERIES IN EARLY MAY

LG’s Latest AI Premium Smartphone to be Revealed at Events in New York, Seoul

SEOUL, Apr. 10, 2018 —LG Electronics (LG) announced that it will formally unveil its premium LG G7^ThinQ smartphone on May 2 in New York City and May 3 in Seoul. LG will host media events to introduce the LG G7^ThinQ on May 2 (EDT) at the Metropolitan West in New York and on May 3 (KST) at I’PARK Mall in Seoul. This will be the first G series smartphone to adopt the ThinQ name, created to identify all of LG’s consumer electronics, home appliances and services that utilize artificial intelligence to deliver practical, consumer benefits.

The LG G7^ThinQ is an evolution of the foundation laid by the LG V30S^ThinQ, the first LG smartphone to embrace AI as part of its core features. The V30S^ThinQ incorporated AI technologies that enhanced the most frequently used features including voice recognition and Vision AI to improve camera convenience. The LG G7^ThinQ will offer improved interconnectivity with LG devices such as home appliances, TVs, and more.

“Now is the time when manufacturers have to pay close attention to what customers actually need and want for their smartphones,” said Hwang Jeong-hwan, president of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “With the LG G7^ThinQ, LG is continuing to deliver on its promise to enhance core technologies to meet customers’ real life needs by incorporating AI technologies that are more than features, they are part of the user experience.”

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LG ONCE AGAIN EARNS TOP HONORS AT 2018 RED DOT AWARDS

Signature Kitchen Suite Pro Range Oven and LG CineBeam Laser 4K
Projector Recognized for Industry-Leading Designs

SEOUL, Apr. 9, 2018 — LG Electronics received 21 honors at this year’s Red Dot Design Awards, one of the world’s top three design awards alongside iF Design Awards and IDEA (International Design Excellence Awards). Of the products recognized, two LG products shone the brightest with Best of the Best honors: the ultra premium built-in Signature Kitchen Suite Pro Range oven and the high-end LG CineBeam Laser 4K projector, which were judged among the best of 5,300 designs from 59 countries.

The design of the Signature Kitchen Suite Pro Range was recognized by the Red Dot judging committee for its ergonomic design details such as the control panel interface and comfortable handle. The oven evokes an era when cooking was a more central part of families’ lives and respected those preparing the meals. The first pro range on the market with built-in sous vide, induction and gas, the Wi-Fi enabled oven is powered by LG’s own SmartThinQ^® Technology, a future-ready open platform that allows for convenient remote control operation with a free app available on both Android or iOS platforms.

LG’s other Best of the Best winner is one of the most unique home entertainment products on the market today. The LG CineBeam Laser 4K projector comes in a portable size and unique upright design that is only made possible by the mirrorless I-shaped engine which allows the projector to show perfect images whether it’s placed on the floor, mounted on the wall or hanging from the ceiling. The convenient carrying handle and Auto Cord feature makes the unit look absolutely sleek and clutter-free, prompting the judges to admire the product’s balance between esthetics and convenience and a “design unlike other projectors.”

LG received 19 other honors from Red Dot, which included many appliances such as the Signature Kitchen Suite Refrigerator, Code Zero R9 robot vacuum cleaner and air purifier. LG was also recognized for its home entertainment products, such as LG SIGNATURE OLED TV, industry-leading UltraWide monitors as well as its G6 and V30 flagship smartphones. More obscure but nevertheless eye-catching, LG’s Pra.L home skin care system and pastel-friendly Pocket Photo Printer were also included in the recognition.

“These honors reflect the wide recognition of LG’s distinctive competitiveness in design,” said Noh Chang-ho, head of corporate design at LG Electronics. “Our commitment is to continue focusing on the essence of LG products based on our in-depth understanding of customer demand.”

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LG RELEASES PRELIMINARY EARNINGS FOR FIRST-QUARTER 2018

SEOUL, Apr. 6, 2018 — LG Electronics Inc. (LG) today announced its preliminary earnings results for the first quarter of 2018.

LG reported tentative consolidated revenues for the first quarter of 2018 at KRW 15.1 trillion with an operating profit of KRW 1.1 trillion, marking the highest first quarter revenues and operating profit in the history of the company. Sales are expected to be 3.2 percent higher than the same quarter the previous year with operating profit being up 20.2 percent year-on-year.

These figures are the tentative consolidated earnings based on K-IFRS provided as a service to investors prior to LG Electronics’ final earnings results including net profit. Details regarding each division will be announced officially later this month.

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LG SIGNS INTERNATIONAL K-POP SENSATION BTS AS MOBILE PARTNER

Poster featuring international K-Pop boy band, BTS, who will collaborate with LG on a diverse marketing campaign

Collaboration with BTS Comes as Group Hits New
Milestone in the International Music Scene

SEOUL, Apr. 3, 2018 — LG Electronics (LG) is readying its most ambitious and wide-reaching outreach campaign to date, fronted by today’s hottest K-Pop boy band, BTS. Winner of the Top Social Artist of the Year at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards, South Korea’s most popular supergroup will star in a series of TV and social media campaigns for LG’s mobile products, beginning with the company’s upcoming flagship smartphone.

As the first K-pop artists to crack the Billboard Top 10 and perform at the American Music Awards, BTS has an immense following in major smartphone markets in the Americas, Europe and Asia. The video for the group’s most recent single, Mic Drop, surpassed 200 million views on March 22 (Korea Time), becoming the seventh music video by the boy band to achieve this milestone.

LG and BTS will collaborate on a diverse marketing campaign that reflects the uniquely colorful personalities of each of group’s seven members. The campaign will highlight the band’s talent, attitude and relationship with its fans, the very qualities that LG hopes to bring to its upcoming products starting this quarter.

“BTS achieved international superstardom through raw talent, innovation and authenticity even though many gave them little chance of real success,” says Kim Su-young, vice president and head of marketing for LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “These qualities make BTS a great match with our smartphone brand and we hope to be able to convey to the global audience that LG mobile devices are also about delivering bold innovation with a unique attitude.”

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LG BRINGS FREE LAUNDRY SERVICE TO RESIDENTS OF OGBA COMMUNITY IN NIGERIA

Women and children hand-wash clothes in a laundry bowl by the riverside.

Access to clean water is a challenge to most Nigerians, especially those living in the rural areas. The recent Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), conducted by the Nigerian government in 2016-2017, reveals that about 40 per cent of households, or approximately 70 million residents, do not have access to clean water sources. In the rural areas, nearly 20 million people must traverse long distances on foot to collect unsafe water from polluted lakes and rivers.

Photo Credit: Pulitzer Center (http://goo.gl/MFbvDx)

Erratic power is another major contributor to the lack of safe water. With electricity only available an average of six hours per day, the power required to pump water is limited. According to The Spectator Index report, Nigeria is ranked the second worst electricity supply nation out of 137 countries.

Photo Credit: WaterAid Nigeria (https://goo.gl/7ykqY2)

Hygiene is also a serious problem without a properly supply of water. Children without access to safe water are more likely to die in childhood from waterborne diseases. In Nigeria, diarrhea remains the leading cause of death among children under ﬁve years of age. Children in rural areas spend hours daily collecting water, missing school as a result. And even for those who can attend school, the lack of clean clothes makes proper hygiene and cleanliness a big challenge.

Photo Credit: Juju Films (https://goo.gl/DUiYuw)

To help alleviate the burden in a tangible way, on March 30 LG Electronics launched a free laundry program in the community of Ogba in Ikeja, a suburb of Lagos, Nigeria. The pilot program includes a modern facility to provide up to 50 local families each day with laundry service needs at no cost.

LG constructed the facility which included the installation of a constantly replenished water tank, uninterrupted power supply, washing machines, dryers and even air conditioning. Two full time staff will be on hand to provide free detergent and laundry bags. The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of both LG Electronics and the local LG distributor, Fouani Nigeria Limited.

“LG is using its capabilities to help local communities solve some of their regional issues,” remarked Lee Choong-hak, executive vice president of LG Electronics in charge of corporate social responsibility initiatives at the opening ceremony. “We are hopeful that the opening of Life’s Good with LG Wash will allow local residents to spend more quality time with their families.”

LG is creating a real difference in improving society and helping address social issues in Ogba and the surrounding area. LG plans to open additional laundry service centers in Kano and Ibadan, the second and third largest cities in Nigeria.

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SOUTH KOREAN WOMEN CURLERS TAKE ON NEW ROLE AS THE FACE OF LG APPLIANCES

South Korea’s women curlers, known as “Team Kim” stands abreast with LG CordZero vacuum cleaners in front.

South Korea’s popular women curlers who took the silver medal in last month’s Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, will be supported by LG Electronics with a four-year sponsorship deal as they prepare for the 2022 Olympics in Beijing, China. The champions, known as “Team Kim” after their common surname, will be the new face for LG’s cordless vacuum cleaners, Cord Zero, as well as other home appliances.

Also affectionally called “Garlic Girls” by the media after their garlic-farming hometown of Uiseong from where four of the members hail, Team Kim became unexpected stars with their underdog silver-medal performance, the first curling medal in history for South Korea. During the Olympics, Team Kim took the country by storm, achieving a level of celebrity usually associated with celebrities and K-pop stars.

The first television commercial featuring the team began airing in the Korean market this weekend (Korean language only):

https://youtu.be/v7qS9jzZ5Ao

The team, which struggled in the years leading up to the Olympics due to the lack of interest and knowledge of the sport of curling in the country, qualified for the Sochi Games in 2014 but failed to advance. The team was not expected to do much better in PyeongChang until they bested top-ranked Canada in its first match. Team Kim beat Japan in the semifinals to become the first Asian curlers to make it to the finals.

Team Kim now have a legion of fans who post memes about them on Korean social media sites including videos that feature robot vacuum cleaners and brooms.

For fans who can’t get enough of Team Kim, the women are currently participating in the 2018 Ford World Women’s Curling Championship in Canada until March 25.

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WEBOS ENTERS NEXT PHASE AS GLOBAL PLATFORM UNDER LG’S STEWARDSHIP

LG Partners with Korean Government Body to Expand Diversity of webOS Offerings

SEOUL, Mar. 19, 2018 — As part of a broader effort to make webOS even more accessible to today’s consumers and industries, LG Electronics (LG) entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a federal government body to more actively advance its philosophy of open platform, open partnership and open connectivity.

The National IT Industry Promotion Agency (NIPA) is the governmental body within South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT (Information and Communication Technology) responsible for developing the country’s IT sector. LG will solicit webOS business proposals from hundreds of start-ups recommended by NIPA and shortlist the most viable ones to provide logistical and technical support with commercialization as the ultimate goal. With LG’s backing, startups will take part in international events such as Open Source Summit and OSCON to share their ideas and initiatives with other industry influencers.

Toward its goal of expanding the webOS global footprint, LG developed an open source version of its platform, webOS Open Source Edition, now available to the public at http://webosose.org. Developers can download the source code free as well as taking advantage of related tools, guides and forums on the site to become more familiar with webOS and its inherent benefits as a smart devices platform. And because webOS is a Linux-kernel-based multitasking OS with support for HTML5 and CSS3, webOS will be quite familiar to even new developers.

“When LG adopted webOS for our popular smart TV lineup in 2013, it did so with the knowledge that webOS had tremendous potential,” said Dr. I.P. Park, Chief Technology Officer at LG Electronics. “webOS has come a long way since then and is now a mature and stable platform ready to move beyond TVs to join the very exclusive group of operating systems that have been successfully commercialization at such a mass level. As we move from an app-based environment to a web-based one, we believe the true potential of webOS has yet to be seen.”

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LG EARNS TOP SPOT ON YOUTUBE ADS LEADERBOARD ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

LG Electronics celebrated International Women’s Day 2018 by being named the top video on YouTube Ads Leaderboard. According to Think With Google, “Leaderboard showcases the top ads that women chose to watch and have an empowering message.”

Produced by LG India, it’s “Astronaut” video was created in 2017 to celebrate the company’s 20^th anniversary in the Indian market and currently has more than 104 million views between a 12-month period ending March 1, 2018.

The video showcases LG’s essence of Life’s Good with the story of a girl of modest means who dreams of visiting the stars to see her deceased father. The story exemplifies how the LG brand has touched the hearts and imaginations of millions of women over LG’s two decades in India.

It is a personal tale of many Indian families, particularly the journey of every Indian woman, who makes great sacrifices for her family and children. In this particular tale, the little girl’s journey starts and ends with an LG TV. With this story, LG salutes the spirit of every Indian woman, who never stop giving the best to her loved ones.

“The core motivation behind developing this story line was to thank Indian consumers for their trust and love for the brand LG on our 20th anniversary,” said Kim Ki-wan, president of LG Electronics India. “It is an emotional story and we are extremely touched that this video is enjoyed by a large female audience as the message is about a woman and her aspirations. We will continue to bring offerings that will create a more dynamic world for women and push for their progress through technological empowerment.”

The full video can be viewed at Think With Google: https://www.thinkwithgoogle.com/advertising-channels/video/youtube-leaderboard-international-womens-day-2018/

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LG ANNOUNCES PREMIUM 2018 TV LINEUP

Front view of LG AI-enabled OLED TV model W8

Reinforcing Leadership in Expanding Global OLED TV Market
with ThinQ^® AI and α (Alpha) 9 Image Processor

SEOUL, Mar. 5, 2018 — LG Electronics (LG) today unveiled its 2018 TV lineup with an array of new and innovative OLED and SUPER UHD models, demonstrating its commitment to leading the global premium TV market. At a launching event in Seoul, LG introduced new TV products featuring the company’s exclusive ThinQ^® artificial intelligence (AI) technology and advanced α (Alpha) processor which will lead the way in solidifying LG’s position in the global market for premium TVs, with the market for OLED TVs forecast to see sales of 2.5 million units this year from 1.6 million in 2017.

LG is building upon its legacy as the pioneer of large OLED display technology with the launch of ten new AI-enabled OLED TV models for 2018, including the W8, G8, E8, C8, and B8. Each model boasts a range of design factors from Picture-on-Wall (model 77/65W8), to One Glass Screen (model 65G8), Picture-on-Glass (model 65/55E8) and Cinema Screen design (model 77/65/55C8 and 65/55B8). Screen sizes range from 55 to 77 inches with nine AI-enabled SUPER UHD TVs (model SK95, SK85 and SK80) available in sizes varying from 49 to 75 inches.

With LG’s α (Alpha) 9 intelligent processor powering company’s market leading W8, G8, E8 and C8 OLED TV series, viewers will experience enhanced image rendering and more accurate colors from virtually any viewing angle in addition to perfect black levels, the hallmark of LG’s OLED TVs. And with Dolby Atmos sound and optimal picture quality, this year’s TVs from LG will provide consumers with an immersive viewing experience.

LG’s 2018 AI-enabled SUPER UHD lineup is powered by LG’s α (Alpha) 7, the same powerful processor found in the B8 series. In combination with Nano Cell and FALD backlighting, LG AI-enabled SUPER UHD TVs offer the most advanced LCD picture quality ever with deeper blacks, enhanced image rendering, improved shadow details and accurate colors from the widest viewing angles. To complement the upgraded viewing experience, the new SUPER UHD TVs also support Dolby Atmos for an immersive audiovisual experience.

With AI functionality embedded in the sets, LG TV viewers can speak directly into the remote control to enjoy the ultra-convenient features of the latest advanced voice assistant technology. This is achieved by employing Natural Language Processing (NLP) to deliver intelligent voice-activated control and connectivity based on LG’s exclusive deep learning platform, Deep ThinQ^®. LG’s ThinQ^® AI-enabled TVs support services based on the Electronic Program Guide (EPG) to deliver real-time information and locate channels offering the desired content. Viewers can say “search for this movie’s soundtrack” or “turn off the TV when this program is over” without repeating the program’s title or specifying a time.

LG’s ThinQ^® offers an enhanced interactive experience in the company’s newest smart TV lineup. By functioning as smart home hubs, LG ThinQ^® TVs can access other smart home products such as robotic vacuum cleaners, air conditioners/purifiers, smart lights, smart speakers and many other devices that connect to the TV via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.^*

And with LG’s top-of-the-line α (Alpha) 9 processor powering the company’s market-leading OLED TVs, viewers will experience additional improvements. SUPER UHD TVs with LG Nano Cell employ Full-Array Local Dimming (FALD) backlighting to provide deeper blacks and enhanced colors, as well as nuanced shadow details for more lifelike images.

NLP will be available in 14 countries: Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Mexico, Poland, Russia, Spain, the UK, the US and Turkey. For other territories users will benefit from embedded NLP, by opting for one of the ten main setting languages (English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, Polish, Korean, Russian, and Turkish).

Picture Quality That Spells Perfection

LG’s newest α (Alpha) 9 intelligent processor provides true-to-life images with incredibly rich colors, sharpness, and depth for more realism. A core innovation of the processor is the four-step process of noise reduction, twice as many steps as conventional techniques. The algorithm allows for greater control to boost the clarity of images affected by distracting artifacts for more effective rendering of smooth gradations.

The processor also improves color performance with advanced mapping capabilities that bring colors far closer to the original content.α (Alpha) 9 is designed to support a high frame rate (HFR) for producing smoother and clearer motion images at 120 frames per second. With such technology, LG’s 2018 OLED TVs can display any content at maximum quality for a truly spectacular viewing experience.

Ultimate Cinema HDR Experience

LG’s 2018 OLED and SUPER UHD TVs feature Cinema HDR, which promises a truly cinematic experience at home with all models adding support for Advanced HDR by Technicolor, building on LG’s legacy of supporting major HDR formats from Dolby Vision to HDR10 and HLG (hybrid log-gamma). HDR images are dynamically processed frame by frame using LG’s proprietary algorithm, Enhanced Dynamic Tone mapping.

“Our top-tier OLED and SUPER UHD TV lineup for 2018 demonstrates the highest advancement in TV technology,” said Brian Kwon, president of LG’s Home Entertainment Company. “LG continues to be at the forefront of the global display industry by offering consumers the best possible viewing experience with technologies such as ThinQ^® AI and advanced industry-leading processors.”

^*IoT functions vary country-to-country.

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IMPROVING CUSTOMER TRUST AND ENHANCING CORE TECHNOLOGIES KEY TO LG’S MOBILE STRATEGY

Premium Interim Smartphones Such as LG V30S ^ThinQ to Bolster Product Lineup

BARCELONA, Feb. 27, 2018 — At Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, the new head of LG Electronics’ mobile business, spoke about the importance of meeting consumers’ real needs by improving trust in the LG brand and focusing on core technologies. High-end interim products based on successful premium devices such as V30S ^ThinQ will play an important role toward that goal, according to LG Mobile Communications Company president Hwang Jeong-hwan.

“The majority smartphone customers today desire a great user experience that thoughtfully reflects how they work and play,” said Mr. Hwang. “LG customers expect our phones to excel in four core technologies which we call the ‘ABCD’ of killer features – audio, battery, camera and display. We will prioritize these features not only in our new flagship products but also in our interim products starting with the LG V30S ^ThinQ which we are showing here in Barcelona.”

Leveraging its proven and well-received smartphone platforms with incremental software and aesthetic upgrades will deliver a longer and more satisfying ownership experience for existing customers. Thoughtful features and unique color options that make LG devices stand out from the competition will attract consideration from new customers while enhanced product build quality and after-sales service like the continuous AI suite updates will give consumers even more reason to consider LG when shopping for a new smartphone.

Great audio, one of the most frequently overlooked features in high-end smartphones, is one of the key reasons consumers choose LG phones. LG’s advanced Hi-Fi Quad DAC technology will continue to be enhanced and developed in future devices and developing better battery technologies in partnership with industry leader LG Chem will be a top priority. LG smartphone cameras will not only lead the industry in innovation with better lenses and improved low light performance, they will get smarter with the addition of artificial intelligence to take much of the guesswork out of capturing that perfect shot. And already a world-leader in consumer electronics displays, both LCD and OLED technologies will see significant investments in R&D.

“The smartphone market has evolved significantly over the past decade and the challenge now is to define our path forward for the next decade,” Mr. Hwang said. “There are very few companies with the depth of experience and diversity of product knowledge as LG. We have every intention of growing our mobile footprint and thriving in this environment with our AI capabilities leading the way.”

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LG Newsroom