[2026-01-27]Jeonbuk National University Opens Physical AI Lab to Drive Manufacturing Innovation

The Ministry of Science and ICT officially launched the Physical AI Demonstration Lab at Jeonbuk National University.
The lab enables real-time verification of various production scenarios and technologies, with proven improvements in productivity and work environment at automotive parts companies.
Expansion through the regional AX project is expected to spread these innovations across the industry.

[2026-01-27]Team Korea Sets Sights on Top 10 at 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics

Team Korea held a ceremony in Seoul to boost morale ahead of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
With 71 athletes and 59 officials, Korea aims for a top 10 overall finish, focusing on strong events like short track and figure skating.
Government support, scientific analysis, and local adaptation measures are expected to enhance the team’s performance.

[2026-01-27]Korean Government Launches Comprehensive Circular Economy Policy

The Korean government is implementing a full-cycle resource circulation policy, including reducing single-use items, expanding recycling, and managing future waste resources.
The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment unveiled new initiatives at the 2025 Korea Circular Economy Festival, such as exhibiting remanufactured EV battery packs.
Long-term national strategies and technological innovation aim to transition toward a sustainable circular economy society.

[2026-01-26]President Lee Jae-myung Withdraws Nomination of Budget Minister Candidate Lee Hye-hoon

President Lee Jae-myung has decided to withdraw the nomination of Lee Hye-hoon as Minister of Budget and Planning.
Despite serving three terms as a lawmaker for a conservative party, Lee Hye-hoon did not meet public expectations.
President Lee emphasized continued efforts toward national unity through inclusive appointments.

[2026-01-26]RDA Develops AI-Powered Crop Trait Analysis Automation Technology

The Rural Development Administration has developed an automated crop trait analysis technology by combining phenotyping and artificial intelligence.
This innovation reduces analysis time from up to a week to an average of 30 minutes and achieves over 90% accuracy.
The technology is protected by 4 patents, 1 paper, and 1 copyright, and will be transferred to industry and expanded in the field.

[2026-01-26]Sewoon District 4 Redevelopment Faces UNESCO Inspection and Legal Hurdles

The Cultural Heritage Administration has called for a full review of the Sewoon District 4 redevelopment due to legal non-compliance and concerns over the preservation of the UNESCO-listed Jongmyo Shrine.
With excavation incomplete and no detailed preservation plan submitted, construction cannot legally proceed; the Heritage Committee deferred its decision in January 2024.
If Seoul City fails to respond to UNESCO by January 30, the administration plans to request an immediate on-site inspection.