[2026-01-18]Korean Government Launches ‘K-Export Star 500’ to Boost Promising Exporters

The Korean government has launched the ‘K-Export Star 500’ project to nurture 500 promising companies into star exporters with annual exports exceeding $10 million.
Five specialized agencies, including KOTRA, will provide support in premium marketing, certification, export finance, and R&D consulting, with selected companies receiving up to 560 million KRW and one-on-one mentoring.
This initiative aims to address export polarization and achieve $1 trillion in exports, with applications open until February 11.

[2026-01-18]South Korea to Enhance Inter-Korean Trade and Food Safety Regulations

The Ministry of Unification is revising regulations to boost private inter-Korean trade.
Key changes include amendments to the Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Act and new guidelines for North Korean food imports.
These measures are expected to strengthen food safety and improve predictability for trading companies.

[2026-01-18]Korean Government Expands Childcare Support and Raises Service Fees in 2024

The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family has expanded the income eligibility for government-supported childcare services to households earning up to 250% of the median income and raised the service fee by 5%.
Single-parent, grandparent, disabled, and teen parent families can now receive up to 1,080 hours of support per year, with the 2024 budget increased by 120.3 billion KRW.
From April, a national qualification system and registration for private providers will enhance the reliability and professionalism of childcare services.

[2026-01-18]Korea Strengthens Child Welfare: Temporary Guardianship and Legal Support Expanded

The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced a draft amendment to the Child Welfare Act enforcement decree and rules, open for public comment from February 16.
The revision allows foster caregivers to act as temporary guardians and expands legal counseling support by the National Center for the Rights of the Child.
These changes aim to prevent protection gaps before official guardians are appointed and enhance support for children with disabilities.

[2026-01-18]KFDA to Release Tobacco Harmful Substance Test Results in October

The Korea Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) will disclose the results of tobacco harmful substance tests in October.
Manufacturers and importers must submit test results by the end of this month, following the Tobacco Harmful Substance Management Act enacted in November 2023.
KFDA aims to enhance public health and promote a smoke-free environment by strengthening scientific disclosure and testing systems.

[2026-01-17]Korean Public Medical Sites Face Scraping Risks, Urgent Shift to API Discussed

The Personal Information Protection Commission highlighted serious privacy risks from scraping on public medical institution websites.
On June 16, a forum was held at Gwanghwamun Press Center with the National Health Insurance Service and others to discuss countermeasures and safety improvements.
Authorities are pushing for an API-based system and regulatory changes, including amendments to the Personal Information Protection Act.