The Ministry of SMEs and Startups announced the results of the 2024 SME survey.
The survey targeted SMEs excluding micro-enterprises, enhancing the survey system to provide detailed insights by industry.
According to the results, SMEs’ sales amounted to 2,085 trillion KRW with 7.92 million employees, and the ministry plans to implement tailored support policies based on these findings.
The Central Accident Response Headquarters for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza announced that H5N9 avian influenza has been confirmed at a duck farm in Naju, Jeonnam.
This is the 34th case of highly pathogenic avian influenza during the ’25/’26 winter season, prompting strengthened quarantine measures.
The headquarters is working to prevent further spread through culling, epidemiological investigations, and issuing a temporary movement ban.
According to the FAO, the Global Food Price Index in December 2025 fell by 0.6% from the previous month to 124.3 points.
Prices for oils, dairy, and meat decreased, while prices for cereals and sugar increased.
The average Global Food Price Index for 2025 was 127.2 points, 5.2 points higher than the 2024 average.
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.