Samsung, like Apple, feels sting of slowing global growth

They have also begun to buy smartphones from Chinese manufacturers such as Huawei and Xiaomi. Many models are cheaper than those made by Apple and Samsung.

And the same thing will happen to other high flying South Korean brands, like LG, Kia and Hyundai, which even though they make great products, are subject to extreme Chinese competition in a market that is not and never will be a level playing field for foreigners.

They should think about their overall strategy re Japan and the West and the position of their global brands and businesses in general. If I was South Korean PM, I would be seeking to protect and expand my footprint in the West and that means trying to pursue decent relations with Japan. The two go hand in hand.