In March 2025, a massive wildfire devastated 99,289 hectares across five cities in Gyeongbuk, including Togat Village in Andong.
Local youth group ‘Localgraphy May’ supported residents through government programs, documenting recovery and organizing cultural activities.
Their ongoing efforts led to exhibitions and will continue in 2026, focusing on recording and supporting wildfire-affected villages.
The disability pension in Korea will rise to a maximum of KRW 439,700 per month in 2026, with a basic benefit increase of KRW 7,190.
The government is launching the ‘First Step Job Guarantee Center’ for unemployed youth and investing KRW 576.2 billion to supply 7,820 hydrogen vehicles.
Additional policies include avian influenza control, support for small businesses, and expansion of home-based long-term care centers.
From January 2024, National and Basic Pension payments increase by 2.1%, with income standard limits adjusted from July.
Around 7.52 million National Pension recipients and 7.79 million Basic Pension recipients will receive higher payments.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare will revise related notices and strengthen guidance on these changes.
The Ministry of Planning and Budget and the Ministry of Science and ICT will permanently operate an R&D budget council starting this year.
Of the total 2024 R&D budget of KRW 35.5 trillion, 85.3% (KRW 30.5 trillion) is allocated as major R&D funds.
Both ministries aim to improve expertise and efficiency in budget allocation, applying these reforms from next year’s budget process.
Gov24 allows users to easily obtain five types of certificates needed for the 2025 year-end tax settlement until June 30.
The Ministry of the Interior and Safety has enhanced user convenience with various authentication methods, a dedicated portal, and a queue system.
Certificate issuance is free, and users are advised to use the official Gov24 website for secure service.
The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety announced a five-year plan to expand compensation for drug side effects, including outpatient treatment before and after hospitalization and raising the medical expense limit to 50 million KRW.
The plan features simplified application procedures, enhanced support for severe cases, increased guidance for medical staff and the public, and rationalized system operations.
These improvements aim to strengthen patient-centered services and safety nets, ensuring sustainable management of the compensation system.