The government launched an illegal spam blocking system on the 17th to verify and block bulk message sender numbers in real time.
The Ministry of Science and ICT, along with KTOA and the three major mobile carriers, will pre-block spam messages sent via invalid numbers.
Previously, the government established guidelines to block overseas bulk messages and introduced Google’s EFP for enhanced fraud protection.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) is transitioning from an entry-focused quarantine system to one centered on traveler health prevention and information.
This includes the introduction of AI-based quarantine systems, customized health information services, and enhanced hygiene management for transportation by 2027.
An integrated health information platform for travelers, expanded respiratory testing for inbound travelers, and revised quarantine management areas are also part of the plan.

Starting next year, the non-taxable limit for childbirth and childcare expenses will be expanded to 200,000 KRW per child, and extracurricular academy fees will be included in education tax deductions.
Liquid-type e-cigarettes will now be classified as tobacco products, subjecting them to advertising and online sales restrictions.
Additional tax benefits include separate taxation on dividend income, expanded rent tax credits, and tax exemption on youth savings interest.

From 2020 to the recent five years, 4,112 traffic accidents occurred due to road icing, resulting in 83 deaths and 6,664 injuries.
78% of the accidents were concentrated in December and January, with more incidents occurring on clear or cloudy days than on snowy or rainy days.
The Ministry of the Interior and Safety urged drivers to maintain safe distances and check weather and road conditions to prevent accidents on icy roads.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Visitor Orientation Committee launched the ‘Korea Grand Sale 2026’ on the 17th, running until February 22 next year.
Over 1,750 companies across sectors including aviation, accommodation, shopping, dining, and experiences are participating, offering various discounts and programs for foreign tourists.
Foreign payment apps such as UnionPay and WowPass provide instant discounts, while five experience programs based on K-content are also offered.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced that regional economic growth will be its top priority next year, focusing support on ‘5 Core + 3 Special Growth Engine’ industries.
It plans to expand AI factories nationwide to 500 by 2030 and establish 15 collaborative AI models and 13 AI demonstration industrial complexes.
In addition, it will promote region-specific clusters and implement trade strategies to respond to U.S.-China risks.