[2026-01-11]Ministry of SMEs and Startups Hosts AI Startup Global Expansion Meeting

The Ministry of SMEs and Startups held a meeting in San Francisco to discuss support measures for AI startups’ global expansion.
The meeting included presentations of global expansion plans by seven AI startups and the collection of feedback on challenges.
The event is expected to be attended by over 100 participants, including global corporations, U.S. state governments, and international investors.

[2026-01-11]SMEs Ministry Announces 2024 Survey Results

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.

[2026-01-11]Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Confirmed at Duck Farm in Naju, Jeonnam

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.

[2026-01-11]Korea Forest Service Establishes Special Classification for Forest Industry

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.