CHATGPT

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a roundtable with domestic North Korea experts to discuss the 2026 outlook.
Participants presented on key trends in North Korea’s relations with South Korea, the US, and other countries, and exchanged candid opinions on efforts to promote peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
The Ministry will continue to engage in timely and accurate analysis exchanges with experts and key countries.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare held an expert meeting on January 9 to discuss recent forex market trends and future outlook.
Experts exchanged views on structural changes in the forex market and their impact on the National Pension Fund.
First Vice Minister Lee Sran stated that they will strive to support the public’s retirement by responding promptly to changing market conditions.

The Korea Forest Service and the National Data Agency announced the establishment and implementation of a ‘special classification for the forest industry’ reflecting structural changes and policy demands.
The new classification includes gardens, stone processing, and aviation industries, as well as previously omitted sectors like forest mushroom cultivation.
The Forest Service aims to use this classification to accurately assess the scale and status of the forest industry and develop policies for its continuous development.

Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeong-gwan held a meeting with AMCHAM.
He expressed gratitude for the record-high US investment in Korea and requested further investment from US firms.
The Ministry plans to review suggestions from the meeting and continue communication with major foreign-invested companies.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs received a work report from the Korea Foundation on the 2026 work direction and key tasks.
Minister Cho Hyun urged the Korea Foundation to play a key role in spreading the K-Initiative and strengthening public diplomacy.
Chairman Song Ki-do stated that the foundation will focus on spreading Korean studies, nurturing next-generation Korean experts, and expanding public diplomacy.

From January this year, recipients of the National Pension and Basic Pension will receive a 2.1% increase in benefits.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare has decided to increase the National Pension benefits and adjust the upper and lower limits of the standard monthly income for 2026.
The Basic Pension standard amount will also be increased by 2.1% and applied from 2026.