[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]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.