[2026-01-26]Innovative Medical Devices to Enter Market in Just 80 Days

The Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety will implement the Immediate Market Entry Medical Technology system from January 26, 2026.
With this system, medical devices that pass international-level clinical evaluations can enter the market in as little as 80 days without separate new technology assessments.
Patient safety and non-reimbursement management will be strengthened, covering 199 items including digital medical devices.

[2026-01-26]African Swine Fever Confirmed at Pocheon Farm: Nationwide Quarantine Measures Intensified

African Swine Fever (ASF) was confirmed on January 24 at a pig farm in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province, leading to immediate quarantine actions.
This is the third ASF case in South Korea this year, with 7,945 pigs culled and a 24-hour standstill order issued for related facilities in nine cities and counties.
Authorities are strengthening nationwide disinfection, inspections, and farm management to prevent further outbreaks, while the impact on pork supply is expected to be minimal.

[2026-01-26]NRICH Archive Revamped: Easier Access to National Heritage Research and Digital Resources

The National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage has fully reorganized its NRICH Archive website to enhance access to research achievements and digital materials.
New features include a Documentary Paintings DB with 43 works, an English menu for international users, theme content, and an academic conference archive.
NRICH plans to further expand open access to research information, including AI-powered services, making resources more accessible to the public.

[2026-01-26]2024 Year-End Tax Settlement: Key Deductions and Tax Reliefs You Shouldn’t Miss

As the year-end tax settlement season begins, the National Tax Service is highlighting tax deductions and reliefs that are often overlooked.
Young workers, seniors over 60, people with disabilities, and career-interrupted employees can receive up to 90% income tax relief and various deductions.
From March 14, 2025, career-interrupted men are also eligible for relief, and it is important to check all possible deductions such as donations and monthly rent.

[2026-01-25]Barrier-Free Kiosk Mandate and Integrated Care Rollout: Korea Prepares for Nationwide Implementation

The Ministry of Health and Welfare discussed preparations for the barrier-free kiosk mandate and nationwide integrated care rollout at the 2026 Central-Local Cooperation Meeting.
From January 28, most businesses must install barrier-free kiosks, and integrated medical, nursing, and care services will be available nationwide from March 27.
The government and local authorities are strengthening education and promotion to ensure smooth implementation and early stabilization of these policies.