[2026-01-23]2026 Annual Climate Outlook: Higher Temperatures and Sea Surface Warming Expected

The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) announced that average temperatures and sea surface temperatures in 2026 are expected to be higher than normal.
Using an advanced Earth system climate model, the forecast predicts above-normal temperatures (12.3–12.7°C) and near-normal precipitation (1193.2–1444.0mm) for South Korea.
The KMA urges preparedness for heatwaves, high sea temperatures, and variable rainfall, with detailed information available on the official KMA website.

[2026-01-23]Davos Forum Focuses on Trade Issues and Global Investment Expansion

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo held over 50 meetings at the Davos Forum to address trade issues and expand networks.
He chaired the Investment Facilitation for Development (IFDA) meeting and attended the WTO Trade Ministers’ Meeting, emphasizing multilateral order restoration and global investment attraction.
South Korea is strengthening cooperation with major countries and leading WTO reform discussions, actively participating in establishing new trade norms.

[2026-01-23]Korea to Launch 4.4 Trillion KRW Venture Fund in 2026 Focusing on AI and Regional Growth

The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and two other ministries announced a 2.1 trillion KRW investment to create a 4.4 trillion KRW venture fund in 2026.
Key focuses include AI and deep tech unicorns, regional growth, global expansion, and revitalizing the startup and exit markets across 13 sectors.
Fund proposals are accepted online from February 19 to 26, with final fund managers to be selected in April.

[2026-01-23]Korea Railroad Industry Association Wins Top Prize for Transport Innovation Video

A team led by Kang Beom-cheol from the Korea Railroad Industry Association won the top prize in the video category of the ‘National Agenda Contest for All.’
Their music video creatively showcased Agenda No. 57, ‘Expansion of Transport Innovation Infrastructure,’ among the 123 national agendas.
The contest received 205 entries and held its award ceremony on December 8, 2025.

[2026-01-23]CES 2026 Highlights: K-Robots and AI Wellness Devices Shape Future Living

At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, over 4,500 companies from 150 countries showcased advanced K-robots and AI wellness devices.
Innovative technologies such as Hyundai Motor Group’s humanoid robot Atlas, LG’s home robot CLOiD, and Bodyfriend’s AI healthcare robot 733 drew significant attention.
The integration of AI and robotics into daily life and industry signals strong growth prospects for smart homes and wellness markets.

[2026-01-23]Key Policy Changes in 2026: Passport Fee Hike, Travel Subsidies, and More

The Korean government will implement major policy changes in 2026, including a passport fee hike, rural travel subsidies, and expansion of zero-emission vehicles.
Passport issuance fees will rise by 2,000 KRW from March, and travelers to designated rural areas can receive up to 50% of travel expenses reimbursed.
Additional measures include free sports programs for seniors, mandatory recycled plastics, and enhanced support for startups, signaling broad changes for citizens.