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.

The Ministry of SMEs and Startups will promote growth-centered policies from next year, focusing on nurturing 10,000 youth-led local startups and supporting small business owners.
Four major policy goals include revitalizing local economies, fostering youth entrepreneurship, innovating manufacturing SMEs, and building a fair and collaborative ecosystem.
Specific initiatives include AI-based crisis monitoring for small businesses, creation of localized commercial zones, expanded venture investment, and construction of smart factories.

The Ministry of Climate and Environment plans to supply 100GW of renewable energy by 2030, improving regulations and expanding support for solar and wind power.
It will promote initiatives such as ‘Sunlight Income Villages,’ next-generation technology development, and the 12th Basic Plan for Power Supply and Demand.
Environmental policies including a revised disposable cup deposit system and seasonal algae management, along with expanded EV adoption, are also planned.

The Ministry of Personnel Management announced plans to replace the current 9th-grade civil service exam with the Public Service Aptitude Test (PSAT) and introduce an early promotion system for 5th-grade officials.
Measures include stricter oversight of high-ranking officials’ stock transactions, expansion of disciplinary statute of limitations for stalking and distribution of obscene materials, and enhancement of transparency.
Additional initiatives include salary increases for junior civil servants, special leave benefits, and youth-specific low-interest loans to improve the public service work environment.

The Ministry of Interior and Safety unveiled its key policy directions for 2026, focusing on three main goals and five priority tasks.
These include establishing a citizen participation platform, realizing an AI-driven democratic government, and revitalizing local autonomy.
Additional ‘plus’ initiatives aim to prepare for a safe winter and boost the economy.