[2026-01-14]President Lee Jae-myung and Japanese PM Takaiichi Discuss Deepening Korea-Japan Cooperation

On January 13, 2026, President Lee Jae-myung held a summit with Japanese Prime Minister Takaiichi Sanae in Nara, emphasizing expanded bilateral cooperation.
The two countries discussed practical measures for collaboration in economic security, science and technology, AI, and joint responses to social issues.
This summit continues the Korea-Japan shuttle diplomacy and marks a new starting point for future-oriented relations after 60 years.

[2026-01-14]Korea Establishes Permanent R&D Budget Council for Greater Efficiency

The Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Science and ICT will permanently operate an R&D budget council starting this year.
Of the total 2024 R&D budget of KRW 35.5 trillion, 85.3% (KRW 30.5 trillion) is allocated as major R&D funds.
Both ministries aim to enhance expertise and efficiency in budget allocation, applying these improvements from next year”s budget process.

[2026-01-14]Gov24 Launches Easy Issuance Service for 2025 Year-End Tax Documents

Gov24 allows users to easily obtain five types of certificates needed for the 2025 year-end tax settlement until June 30.
The Ministry of the Interior and Safety offers a dedicated portal from June 12, accessible without membership and via various authentication methods.
Service stability and convenience are improved with queue display features and expanded mobile ID app support.

[2026-01-14]Korea Expands Drug Side Effect Compensation and Raises Medical Cost Limit

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety announced a five-year plan (2026–2030) to improve the drug side effect compensation system.
Coverage will expand to outpatient care before and after hospitalization, and the compensation cap will increase from 30 million to 50 million KRW.
Key strategies include simplifying application procedures, enhancing guidance for medical staff, and rationalizing system operations.

[2026-01-14]Korean Green Bond Support Expanded to Boost SME Decarbonization Investment

The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment and KEITI announced a major expansion of green bond and green ABS issuance support this year.
Revised green taxonomy now includes next-generation low-carbon technologies and operating funds, broadening support for SMEs.
Interest cost support is extended up to 3 years, with up to KRW 300 million per company, aiming to strengthen private-led green investment.