The Rural Development Administration held the 3rd ASTIS Data Utilization Contest, selecting outstanding organizations for their digital rural guidance service. ASTIS is a platform providing customized agricultural information, with Jeollanam-do Agricultural Research & Extension Services, Cheongju Agricultural Technology Center, and Gyeonggi-do Agricultural Technology Center being recognized. The Rural Development Administration plans to continue upgrading the service and solve agricultural issues swiftly through data-based rural guidance services.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a joint situation assessment meeting with 10 diplomatic missions in Japan following recent earthquakes. The Japanese government advised caution against further tremors after a 7.5 magnitude earthquake. The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary measures to protect Korean nationals.

Lee Dong-gi, Director General for ASEAN at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, attended the 13th ASEAN Connectivity Forum to explain Korea’s role in strengthening ASEAN connectivity and digital innovation. The ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan 2026-2035 has introduced new strategic areas such as smart and sustainable urban development and supply chains. Korea has supported transportation infrastructure in ASEAN countries and plans to continue cooperation in climate change response and digital transformation.

The Ministry of SMEs and Startups announced the hosting of the ‘1st Manufacturing AI Solution Pitching Day’. The event was held in conjunction with ‘COMEUP 2025’ and was attended by about 150 people. In the final round, four outstanding solutions were selected, including the grand prize winners in two categories.

The government has designated manual therapy, percutaneous epidural neuroplasty, and radiotherapy for managed care benefits. The Non-covered Medical Services Management Policy Council made this decision to address the issue of excessive treatments in non-covered services. The criteria and pricing for managed care benefits will be decided through the Health Insurance Policy Deliberation Committee.

South Korea’s K2 tank has made its first entry into Latin America. The Peruvian army and South Korean defense contractors signed a framework agreement to supply 54 K2 tanks and 141 wheeled armored vehicles, totaling 195 ground equipment units. This export represents the largest defense export to Latin America, with implementation contracts expected to be finalized next year.