KT&G Raises 2026 Profit Guidance Following Record Half-Year Revenue

Second-quarter consolidated revenue reached KRW 1.7016 trillion, a 9.9% increase year-over-year, while operating profit climbed 18.5% to KRW 414.5 billion. This momentum prompted the firm to raise its full-year revenue growth forecast to 5–7% and operating profit targets to 10–13%. The core tobacco business proved the primary engine for these gains, with revenue rising 11.7% to KRW 1.2185 trillion.

Global cigarette sales were a standout, surging 18.9% to KRW 557.7 billion despite geopolitical headwinds in markets like Iran. Meanwhile, the Next Generation Products (NGP) segment captured a 48.2% domestic market share, driven by the rollout of the 'lil AIBLE 3.0' device. While the KGC health food unit saw domestic gains, overseas revenue dipped due to inventory adjustments in China.

Management is leaning heavily into shareholder returns. The board’s decision to increase the interim dividend by KRW 600 reflects a broader strategy to bolster corporate value. Having already completed its treasury share cancellation goals ahead of schedule, the company intends to unveil a new mid-to-long-term return policy in the fourth quarter.