[2026-01-24]Korean Government Launches 4.4 Trillion Won Venture Fund for AI and Regional Growth

The Korean government is establishing a 4.4 trillion won venture fund to boost AI and deep tech unicorns and expand regional venture investments.
The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and partners will invest 2.1 trillion won, focusing 1.3 trillion won on AI and deep tech and 230 billion won on the largest-ever regional growth fund.
Policies include activating the exit market, launching global funds, and supporting startups and re-challenges, with a goal to create over 3.5 trillion won in regional sub-funds by 2030.

[2026-01-24]Key Points and Common Mistakes in Korea’s Year-End Tax Deductions

The National Tax Service has highlighted common mistakes in year-end tax deductions for employees.
Key updates include dependent income limits, requirements for rent, housing loans, and medical expense deductions.
Over-claimed deductions may result in additional taxes and penalties, so careful review is essential.

[2026-01-23]Korea Repatriates 73 Suspects in Record-Breaking Transnational Scam Case

A special task force has successfully repatriated 73 Korean nationals from Cambodia, accused of defrauding 869 victims of approximately 48.6 billion KRW through various scams.
This record-breaking repatriation, ordered by President Lee Jae-myung, follows a long-term pursuit by a dedicated investigation team that identified seven scam complexes and apprehended suspects involved in romance scams, deepfake fraud, and investment schemes.
Upon their arrival at Incheon Airport on January 23, 2026, the suspects will face thorough investigation and legal processing, with the government vowing to pursue asset recovery and continue its crackdown on overseas-based transnational crimes.

[2026-01-23]President Lee Jae-myung Urges Faster Reforms and Crackdown on Transnational Crime

President Lee Jae-myung called for accelerating government reforms to deliver tangible changes for citizens.
He emphasized eradicating transnational crimes and discussed new policy ideas for 2026.
The government plans to thoroughly implement the discussed policies for noticeable public impact.

[2026-01-23]Korean Brain Disease Data Drives Early Diagnosis Research for Dementia and Parkinson’s

The Korea National Institute of Health published a report highlighting key achievements in early diagnosis and prediction of dementia and Parkinson’s through the BRIDGE project.
Since 2021, the project has produced 101 papers and 5 patents across AI imaging research, intervention technology development, and Korean-specific disease analysis.
These findings support tailored disease management strategies for Koreans, and the report is available on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency website.

[2026-01-23]Leprosy Cases in Korea Remain Below 10; WHO Highlights World Leprosy Day

In the past decade, new leprosy cases in Korea have been stably managed at under 10 per year.
Globally, 172,717 new leprosy cases were reported in 2024, a 5.5% decrease from 2023, while Korea saw 3 new cases in 2025 (1 Korean, 2 foreigners).
The government continues efforts in early detection, treatment, and welfare support, focusing on reducing social stigma and improving living conditions for patients.