South Korea has announced a major reform of the KS certification system after more than 60 years.
The changes expand eligibility to designers and developers, extend validity periods, and strengthen enforcement against illegal use.
The policy was jointly announced by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards on February 4.
South Korea’s Ministry of Education has announced the 2026 All-Community Elementary Care and Education policy.
The initiative expands care and after-school education, focusing on eliminating service gaps for students in grades 3 and above.
Implementation begins in 2026, with preparations underway since 2024.
Sokcho City, the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, and Korea SMEs and Startups Agency have launched new savings programs for SME employees.
These initiatives aim to boost long-term employment and asset formation, strengthening the local economy.
The programs begin in April 2024, with phased support over three years.
Korea Customs Service is implementing an origin verification support program for small and medium exporters to the US.
The initiative strengthens origin management capabilities to address changing trade environments and US customs policies.
Applications are open from February 9 to 20, 2026, with consulting provided through June.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare discussed preparations for the barrier-free kiosk mandate and nationwide integrated care rollout at the 2026 Central-Local Cooperation Meeting.
From January 28, most businesses must install barrier-free kiosks, and integrated medical, nursing, and care services will be available nationwide from March 27.
The government and local authorities are strengthening education and promotion to ensure smooth implementation and early stabilization of these policies.
The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and two other ministries announced a 2.1 trillion KRW investment to create a 4.4 trillion KRW venture fund in 2026.
Key focuses include AI and deep tech unicorns, regional growth, global expansion, and revitalizing the startup and exit markets across 13 sectors.
Fund proposals are accepted online from February 19 to 26, with final fund managers to be selected in April.