South Korea’s 2026 growth outlook looks better thanks to exports, especially chips.
Yet households still face higher fuel and living costs, and many small businesses remain under strain.
Livelihood support for childcare, small business recovery, and middle-age job transitions is part of the same growth story.
The real test is whether macro gains translate into daily relief.
South Korea has launched a comprehensive startup policy to shift the national growth paradigm from employment to entrepreneurship.
The government will support 5,000 entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship, and ecosystem reforms, focusing on tech and local startups.
Applications for the Modoo Startup Project are open from March 26 to May 15, 2026.
South Korea has announced new measures to manage household debt and restrict mortgage extensions for multi-homeowners.
The government will limit household debt growth to 1.5% and prohibit mortgage maturity extensions in regulated areas.
These policies take effect from April 17, 2026, following a joint meeting of key financial agencies.
South Korea and Indonesia have established a Special Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
This partnership includes 16 new MOUs covering trade, defense, technology, and cultural cooperation.
The agreement was formalized during a state visit on April 1, 2026.
South Korea is implementing policies to reduce private tutoring costs and strengthen public education.
Expanded after-school programs and targeted student support will be provided from 2027 to 2030.
The Ministry of Education announced these measures following a March 2025 survey analysis.
The Personal Information Protection Commission has overhauled Korea’s pseudonymized data processing guidelines.
Key changes include a standardized risk-based assessment system and reduced documentation requirements.
The revised guidelines were announced on March 31 and reflect recent AI and data environment changes.