Starting in 2026, the Korean government plans to greatly expand policies closely tied to daily life, covering land, transportation, agriculture, food, defense, and public safety. Key initiatives include the launch of Land Satellite 2, enhanced aviation and transportation safety, and mandatory drug driving tests to strengthen safety management. Additional measures such as meal support for SME workers, expanded VAT exemption for pet medical expenses, and support for K-food and seafood exports aim to boost both public welfare and industrial competitiveness. These policies are expected to have a broad impact on citizens’ daily lives, safety, and economic well-being.
Land Satellite 2 will begin full operation in the second half of 2026, providing high-resolution imagery via the National Land Information Platform (map.ngii.go.kr). The aviation insurance system has been improved to better protect accident victims, with new regulations taking effect on June 3, 2026, following the National Assembly’s approval in November 2025. Mandatory drug driving tests introduce strict penalties, including up to five years in prison or fines up to 20 million KRW for non-compliance. Meal support will be provided to 54,000 SME employees, and the VAT exemption for pet medical services now covers 112 items.
In defense, reservist training compensation will be newly established and increased from 2026, and a project to train 500,000 drone soldiers will be launched. Disclosure of information on draft evaders will be expanded to enhance fairness in military service. In administration and safety, real-time processing of value-added telecom user requests, the launch of an integrated legal support system, expanded disaster relief, strengthened support for stalking and dating violence victims, and free fire detectors for old apartments are among the new measures. These policies will be systematically implemented through collaboration among relevant ministries and agencies.
This policy expansion marks a significant turning point for Korea in strengthening public safety, welfare, and industrial competitiveness. The introduction of advanced technologies such as satellites and drones lays the groundwork for adapting to future societal changes. Expanded support for vulnerable groups and the socially disadvantaged contributes to a more inclusive society. The government’s proactive administration and integrated services are expected to restore public trust and maximize policy effectiveness.
The Korean government’s 2026 policy expansion exemplifies advanced administration by integrating cutting-edge technology with robust social safety nets. Initiatives like Land Satellite 2, drone soldier training, and integrated legal services reflect a strategic approach to digital transformation and citizen-centered service. Measures such as mandatory drug driving tests, expanded disaster relief, and VAT exemption for pet medical care will have multi-layered impacts on public safety, welfare, and industrial competitiveness, ultimately enhancing social trust and inclusivity.