[2025-12-17]Korea-Japan Tourism Promotion Council Discusses Exchange Expansion

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism held the 39th Korea-Japan Tourism Promotion Council in Shiga Prefecture.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of Korea-Japan diplomatic normalization, and discussions focused on expanding tourism exchanges and revitalizing regional tourism.
Government and industry representatives from both countries gathered to discuss various tourism industry issues and explore cooperation strategies.

[2025-12-17]President Lee Jae-myung Holds Summit with Laos President

President Lee Jae-myung and Laos President Thongloun Sisoulith agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership during their summit.
The two countries plan to establish a hotline and sign a police cooperation MOU, expanding cooperation in infrastructure, key minerals, and climate change response.
Additionally, they signed the Korea-Laos judicial cooperation treaty and extradition treaty, and renewed the MOU on labor permit system.

[2025-12-17]President Lee Jae-myung Announces First Budget for AI Era

President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the importance of the first budget for the AI era in his 2026 budget speech.
Next year’s government R&D budget has been confirmed at a record high of approximately 35.5 trillion won.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs plans to allocate 261.7 billion won for R&D in the agricultural and food sectors, focusing on smart agriculture and green bio industries.