For the processes K+(g) I⟶ K(g) II⟶K−(g)
Energy is released in (I) and absorbed in (II)
(I)K+(g) +e−⟶ K(g) ⟶ Negative electron gain enthalpy
(II)K(g) +e−⟶ K−(g) ⟶ Positive electron gain enthalpy
In first process energy is released while in the second energy is absorbed.