[2026-01-21]President Lee Jae-myung Stresses Field Inspections for Policy Success

President Lee Jae-myung highlighted that policy success requires thorough field inspections and swift improvements, despite achieving the highest government performance rating since 2013.
Key topics at the cabinet meeting included new public welfare policies for 2026, enhanced tax delinquency management, and support for crime victims.
Strict management of North Korean drone issues, cold wave measures, and public sector innovation are expected to be prioritized.

[2026-01-21]Startup Numbers Rise in 2023, but Revenue and Employment Decline

In 2023, the number of startups in Korea reached 4.902 million, marking a third consecutive year of growth, but both employment and revenue declined.
Tech-based and youth-led startups drove the increase, with 83.2% of founders leveraging prior work experience.
Despite broader startup activity, challenging business conditions and funding difficulties persist, while the government plans to boost support funding to KRW 3.5 trillion in 2026.

[2026-01-21]Foreign Favorability Toward Korea Hits Record High, K-Content Drives Image

In 2023, foreign favorability toward Korea reached a record 82.3% since the 2018 survey began.
A Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism survey of 13,000 people in 26 countries found K-content had the greatest positive impact.
Middle Eastern and African nations showed especially high favorability, with positive trends also seen in Japan and China.

[2026-01-21]2024 Year-End Tax Settlement: Income Tax Reduction and Deductions for Young and Career-Interrupted Workers

Young employees at SMEs receive a 90% income tax reduction for five years after employment, and career-interrupted men are now also eligible.
Various deductible items include spouse parental leave pay, university student work scholarships, monthly rent, and housing loan repayments.
The National Tax Service advises that thoroughly checking deduction and reduction items during year-end settlement can reduce the need for additional filings.

[2026-01-20]Achievements of 7 Months Under Lee Jae-myung Government and Korea’s Future

Over the past seven months, the Lee Jae-myung administration has strengthened communication between the government and opposition parties.
Presidential Secretary Kim Byung-wook emphasized that the government’s success is essential for Korea’s progress.
Efforts to make Korea a globally admired nation are expected to continue.

[2026-01-20]Blue House Addresses Fair Admissions and Counterfeit Korean Goods Issues

The Blue House held a senior aides meeting led by Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik to discuss admissions fairness and the spread of counterfeit Korean goods.
Recent illegal exam leaks have undermined trust in the admissions system, while fake K-beauty and K-food products are increasingly distributed overseas.
The government ordered thorough inspections and improvements by the Ministry of Education and related agencies, including possible legal revisions and budget support.