[2026-01-21]Korean Government Unveils Co-Growth Strategy for Large and Small Businesses by 2026

On January 21, the Korean government announced a co-growth strategy for large and small businesses, led by Deputy Prime Minister Koo Yun-cheol.
The plan includes expanding economic diplomacy achievements, increasing co-financing programs, and preventing technology theft, with three main strategies and detailed tasks through 2026.
Authorities will closely monitor implementation via a new public-private joint meeting, aiming for inclusive growth across the business ecosystem.

[2026-01-21]Financial Services Commission Launches 1,240 Trillion KRW Productive Finance Initiative

The Financial Services Commission held a regular council with financial institutions to drive a major shift toward productive finance.
A five-year support plan totaling 1,240 trillion KRW was discussed, including 614 trillion from private finance and 626 trillion from policy finance.
The government and financial sector aim to boost funding for advanced industries, startups, and regional growth through close cooperation.

[2026-01-21]Korea Eases Industrial Complex Regulations to Boost High-Tech Investment

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced regulatory reforms to expand eligible businesses and ease facility restrictions in industrial complexes and knowledge industry centers.
The revision allows 17 new business types, including electrical and IT construction, and expands the scope of high-tech and knowledge industries to 92 and 95 categories, respectively.
Companies can now install cafes and convenience stores without changing building use, and open cultural and sports facilities to local residents, reducing costs and improving worker welfare.

[2026-01-21]President Lee Jae-myung Stresses Field Inspections for Policy Success

President Lee Jae-myung highlighted that policy success requires thorough field inspections and swift improvements, despite achieving the highest government performance rating since 2013.
Key topics at the cabinet meeting included new public welfare policies for 2026, enhanced tax delinquency management, and support for crime victims.
Strict management of North Korean drone issues, cold wave measures, and public sector innovation are expected to be prioritized.

[2026-01-21]Startup Numbers Rise in 2023, but Revenue and Employment Decline

In 2023, the number of startups in Korea reached 4.902 million, marking a third consecutive year of growth, but both employment and revenue declined.
Tech-based and youth-led startups drove the increase, with 83.2% of founders leveraging prior work experience.
Despite broader startup activity, challenging business conditions and funding difficulties persist, while the government plans to boost support funding to KRW 3.5 trillion in 2026.

[2026-01-21]Foreign Favorability Toward Korea Hits Record High, K-Content Drives Image

In 2023, foreign favorability toward Korea reached a record 82.3% since the 2018 survey began.
A Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism survey of 13,000 people in 26 countries found K-content had the greatest positive impact.
Middle Eastern and African nations showed especially high favorability, with positive trends also seen in Japan and China.