[2026-01-14]Korean Ministry Invests 43 Billion KRW to Train 3,400 AI-Powered Content Experts

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will invest 43 billion KRW to nurture over 3,400 K-content professionals in response to AI technology expansion.
New initiatives include an AI-specialized content academy and sector-specific training for beginners, experts, and fields like games, OTT, and webtoons.
Efforts focus on strengthening global competitiveness and practical skills to ensure sustainable growth in the K-content industry.

[2026-01-14]South Korea Named Chair Country for IRENA Assembly, Boosting Global Renewable Leadership

South Korea has been designated as the chair country for the 2027 International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Assembly.
This decision was made at the 16th IRENA Assembly, which includes 171 member countries, marking Korea’s first time as chair since its founding membership.
Over the next year, Korea will lead global renewable energy expansion and international cooperation, enhancing its status in energy transition policies.

[2026-01-14]Busan Port Cruise Immigration Time and Toothpaste Safety Under Scrutiny

Concerns were raised about delays in Busan Port cruise immigration due to equipment failures and staff shortages, but the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries stated all systems are operating normally and efforts are being made to reduce wait times.
Triclosan, a banned substance, was detected up to 0.15% in Aekyung toothpaste, prompting the MFDS to inspect six imported 2080 toothpaste products.
The MFDS announced strict safety checks and administrative actions for violations, aiming to strengthen public safety management.

[2026-01-14]KF-21 Fighter Completes 1,600 Test Flights, Marking a New Era for Korean Aerospace

The Defense Acquisition Program Administration announced the successful completion of 1,600 accident-free test flights for the domestically developed 4.5-generation KF-21 fighter jet.
Since the prototype rollout in April 2021, agencies including the Ministry of National Defense and the Air Force have verified over 13,000 test conditions, with advanced trials such as aerial refueling and air-to-air weapon launches.
Mass production of the KF-21 will begin in the second half of this year, significantly boosting South Korea’s air defense and future aerial combat capabilities.

[2026-01-14]Presidential Sejong Office Design Contest Marks Key Step for Administrative Capital

The Multifunctional Administrative City Construction Agency has launched the architectural design contest for the Presidential Sejong Office.
The office will cover 40,000㎡ and include the presidential residence, crisis management center, and other key facilities.
A public voting system will be used to ensure citizens’ opinions are reflected in the final design selection.

[2026-01-14]Global Critical Minerals Meeting Highlights Korea\’s Role in Supply Chain Cooperation

Vice Prime Minister Koo Yun-cheol attended the Critical Minerals Finance Ministers Meeting in Washington D.C.
G7, Australia, India, Mexico, and EC countries expressed a joint commitment to overcoming supply chain vulnerabilities.
The U.S. emphasized derisking over decoupling, urging expanded technical and project-based cooperation with Korea.