The Korea Forest Service and the National Data Agency announced the establishment and implementation of a ‘special classification for the forest industry’ reflecting structural changes and policy demands.
The new classification includes garden and stone processing industries, aviation industries, and previously omitted mushroom cultivation.
The Korea Forest Service aims to use this classification to closely monitor the forest industry’s scale and status and develop related policies.

Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeong-gwan held a meeting with AMCHAM and US-invested companies.
He expressed gratitude for the record-high US investment in Korea and urged US firms to expand their investments.
The Ministry plans to review the suggestions made during the meeting and continue communication with major foreign-invested companies.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs received a report from the Korea Foundation on its 2026 work direction and key tasks.
Minister Cho Hyun urged the foundation to ensure its activities contribute to the public’s livelihood and national tasks.
Chairman Song Ki-do stated that the foundation will focus on expanding Korean studies, youth engagement, and public diplomacy.

From January this year, recipients of the National Pension and Basic Pension will receive a 2.1% increase in their benefits.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare has approved the increase in National Pension benefits and the adjustment of the upper and lower limits of the standard monthly income for 2026.
The Basic Pension standard amount will also increase by 2.1%, benefiting approximately 7.79 million elderly people.

The government conducted promotions for generals below the rank of major general on January 9.
A total of 41 officers were promoted to major general and 77 to brigadier general across the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force.
The promotion rates for non-military academy graduates and female officers have significantly increased, with a focus on selecting talent from diverse backgrounds and specialties.

The National AI Strategy Committee has developed a pilot model for diagnosing rental fraud risks.
This model uses machine learning to detect signs of rental fraud in advance.
Detailed information can be found in the attached file.