The government launched an illegal spam number blocking system on the 17th to verify sender numbers in real time.
The Ministry of Science and ICT, along with KTOA and the three major mobile carriers, will now pre-block messages from invalid numbers.
Concurrent measures include standards for blocking overseas bulk messages and the domestic introduction of Google’s EFP.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) is transitioning from an入境-based quarantine system to one focused on traveler health prevention and information.
Key initiatives include the introduction of an AI-based quarantine system, the development of an integrated health information platform ‘Travel Health Alert e,’ and strengthened hygiene management for transportation.
The reform aims for institutionalization by 2027, alongside the establishment of an integrated manual for pandemic preparedness and enhanced public communication.

Starting next year, the non-taxable limit for childbirth and childcare expenses will be expanded to 200,000 KRW per child per month.
The government will also include extracurricular education costs for children under 9 years old in tax deductions and regulate e-cigarettes as tobacco products.
Additional reforms include higher corporate tax rates, increased support for social enterprises, and separate taxation on dividend income.

From 2020 to the recent five years, 4,112 traffic accidents occurred due to road icing, with 78% happening in December and January.
A total of 83 people died and 6,664 were injured; black ice was particularly dangerous as it is hard to detect.
The Ministry of the Interior and Safety urges drivers to maintain safe distances and check weather and road conditions during winter.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Visitor Orientation Committee launched the ‘Korea Grand Sale 2026’ on the 17th, which will run until February 22 next year.
Over 1,750 companies across sectors such as aviation, accommodation, shopping, dining, and experiences are participating, offering various discounts and benefits for foreign tourists.
Enhanced tourism experiences based on K-content, including themed programs, a Welcome Center, and mobile Play Trucks, aim to revitalize local economies.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced regional economic growth as its top priority for next year, with bold support for ‘5 Core + 3 Special Growth Engine’ industries.
It plans to accelerate the fusion of manufacturing and AI (M.AX), aiming to establish 500 AI factories, 15 collaborative AI models, and 13 AX demonstration industrial complexes by 2030.
In addition, it will pursue a new trade strategy to expand global markets, while strengthening economic security through expanded trade insurance and support for key materials.