The Ministry of Education and Korean National Commission for UNESCO announced applications for the 2026 UNESCO Youth Expert Training Program (U-STEP) are open until February 1.
This year, 10 participants will be selected to gain hands-on experience at UNESCO offices in Paris and Bangkok for six months.
Eligible applicants are aged 19 to 34, with final selection through domestic screening and UNESCO interviews.
The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety urges consumers to check the ‘Olbaro’ website to prevent harm from overseas direct purchase foods containing hazardous ingredients.
The website’s users increased from 300,000 in 2023 to 400,000 in 2024, reaching 890,000 in 2025.
MFDS is enhancing online promotion, developing a web app, and revising laws to create a safer environment for overseas direct food purchases.
On June 13, the amended Enforcement Decree of the Welfare of Senior Citizens Act was approved at the Cabinet meeting, strengthening criteria for age-friendly city designation.
The designation is valid for five years, and local governments must demonstrate achievements in senior participation, care, and safety to apply.
Regulations for cancellation and administrative support are established, with detailed guidelines to be announced in the first half of this year.
President Lee Jae-myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held a summit in Nara, Japan, on January 13, 2026.
Both leaders emphasized the significance of 60 years of diplomatic ties and the importance of future cooperation.
They reaffirmed their commitment to advancing Korea-Japan relations and regional stability, expressing optimism for the future.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is conducting weekly checks to address supply instability caused by livestock diseases and weather anomalies.
Key items this month include rice, cabbage, radish, garlic, apples, tangerines, strawberries, Korean beef, pork, and eggs, with vegetables and fruits showing overall stability.
Ahead of the Lunar New Year, the ministry plans to secure sufficient supply and strengthen management to ensure market stability.
On January 13, 2026, President Lee Jae-myung held a summit with Japanese Prime Minister Takaiichi Sanae in Nara, Japan, emphasizing expanded cooperation.
Both countries discussed practical measures for collaboration in economic security, science and technology, social issues, transnational crime response, and people-to-people exchanges.
The summit, part of ongoing shuttle diplomacy, marked a new starting point for future-oriented Korea-Japan relations after 60 years.