[2026-01-24]Korean Government Launches 4.4 Trillion Won Venture Fund for AI and Regional Growth

The Korean government is establishing a 4.4 trillion won venture fund to boost AI and deep tech unicorns and expand regional venture investments.
The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and partners will invest 2.1 trillion won, focusing 1.3 trillion won on AI and deep tech and 230 billion won on the largest-ever regional growth fund.
Policies include activating the exit market, launching global funds, and supporting startups and re-challenges, with a goal to create over 3.5 trillion won in regional sub-funds by 2030.

[2026-01-24]Key Points and Common Mistakes in Korea’s Year-End Tax Deductions

The National Tax Service has highlighted common mistakes in year-end tax deductions for employees.
Key updates include dependent income limits, requirements for rent, housing loans, and medical expense deductions.
Over-claimed deductions may result in additional taxes and penalties, so careful review is essential.

[2026-01-23]Korea Railroad Industry Association Wins Top Prize for Transport Innovation Video

A team led by Kang Beom-cheol from the Korea Railroad Industry Association won the top prize in the video category of the ‘National Agenda Contest for All.’
Their music video creatively showcased Agenda No. 57, ‘Expansion of Transport Innovation Infrastructure,’ among the 123 national agendas.
The contest received 205 entries and held its award ceremony on December 8, 2025.

[2026-01-23]CES 2026 Highlights: K-Robots and AI Wellness Devices Shape Future Living

At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, over 4,500 companies from 150 countries showcased advanced K-robots and AI wellness devices.
Innovative technologies such as Hyundai Motor Group’s humanoid robot Atlas, LG’s home robot CLOiD, and Bodyfriend’s AI healthcare robot 733 drew significant attention.
The integration of AI and robotics into daily life and industry signals strong growth prospects for smart homes and wellness markets.

[2026-01-23]Key Policy Changes in 2026: Passport Fee Hike, Travel Subsidies, and More

The Korean government will implement major policy changes in 2026, including a passport fee hike, rural travel subsidies, and expansion of zero-emission vehicles.
Passport issuance fees will rise by 2,000 KRW from March, and travelers to designated rural areas can receive up to 50% of travel expenses reimbursed.
Additional measures include free sports programs for seniors, mandatory recycled plastics, and enhanced support for startups, signaling broad changes for citizens.

[2026-01-23]President Lee Jae-myung Unveils Five Major Transformation Strategies for Korea in 2026 New Year Press Conference

President Lee Jae-myung announced five major transformation strategies for Korea at the 2026 New Year press conference, focusing on regional-led growth, inclusive growth, safety-based development, culture-driven progress, and peace-supported stability.
Key policies include the integration of Daejeon-Chungnam and Gwangju-Jeonnam, support for startups and ventures, increasing labor inspectors, expanding the cultural budget, and resuming inter-Korean dialogue.
President Lee emphasized practical governance centered on the people and a strong commitment to reforms, promising a leap forward for Korea’s future.