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military conflicts Mar 14, 2026, 6:01 AM
North Korea launches 10 ballistic missiles amid joint US-South Korea military drills - North Korea launched around 10 ballistic missiles into the eastern sea on March 14, 2026.
- The missile fire coincided with joint military exercises conducted by the United States and South Korea.
- This event underscores ongoing tensions and challenges in regional security dynamics.
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politics Mar 12, 2026, 7:53 AM
South Korean lawmakers pass law to manage massive U.S. investments - South Korean lawmakers approved legislation to manage $350 billion in U.S. investments, fostering governmental efforts to ward off unfavorable tariffs.
- The law establishes a public corporation to oversee investment projects, aiming to align with Korean and U.S. trade mandates.
- Concerns were raised by opposition lawmakers about potential risks to local interests and economic autonomy amid rising trade tension.
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society Mar 11, 2026, 9:17 AM
South Korea's transport ministry approved dangerous airport designs leading to tragedy - The December 2024 crash involved a bird strike that caused a Boeing 737-800 to belly land and hit a concrete structure.
- An audit revealed the transport ministry approved unsafe airport structures, which compromised aviation safety.
- The situation has led to police investigations and a public demand for accountability from officials responsible for the disaster.
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politics Mar 10, 2026, 2:13 AM
North Korean leader's sister warns of terrible consequences over joint drills - Kim Yo Jong criticized the US and South Korea for their Freedom Shield military exercises that began on March 9, 2026.
- The drills are perceived by North Korea as potential invasion rehearsals and contribute to regional instability.
- Kim warned of terrible consequences for any threats to North Korea's safety, emphasizing the need for military readiness.
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business Mar 4, 2026, 3:37 PM
South Korea's KOSPI index suffers historic drop amid market turmoil - South Korea's KOSPI stock index experienced an unprecedented plunge exceeding 12 percent, wiping out significant market value.
- The sell-off caused widespread panic among traders, especially within South Korea’s key technology sectors.
- Despite the steep declines, the market showed signs of recovery on March 5, driven by renewed diplomatic hopes and stabilizing oil prices.
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politics Feb 27, 2026, 8:11 AM
South Korea finally allows Google to export map data amid security concerns - South Korea's government has approved the export of detailed mapping data to overseas servers for Google after years of restrictions.
- Google must comply with strict security requirements, including removing sensitive information and processing data on local servers.
- This decision could enhance Google Maps' functionality in South Korea and impact local competitors, all while addressing U.S. concerns.
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politics Feb 23, 2026, 1:02 PM
South Korea demands removal of pro-war banner from Russian embassy - The Russian embassy in Seoul displayed a large banner in support of its war efforts in Ukraine.
- South Korea's Foreign Ministry requested that the embassy remove the banner, citing it as a violation of international law.
- The ongoing tension highlights the complexities in South Korea-Russia relations and military threats posed by North Korea.
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business Feb 23, 2026, 1:00 AM
South Korea and Brazil enhance cooperation in key sectors - South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva held a summit in Seoul.
- They agreed to expand cooperation in trade, technology, key minerals, and culture.
- The leaders emphasized the importance of building a strategic partnership for stability.
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military conflicts Feb 20, 2026, 1:00 PM
US and China engage in rare military confrontation near Korean peninsula - US fighter jets conducted military drills over international waters on February 18, 2026.
- Chinese military responded by scrambling aircraft to monitor US activities near its air defense identification zone.
- This encounter reflects the escalating tensions between the US and China in the Indo-Pacific region.
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military conflicts Feb 19, 2026, 3:20 AM
North Korea unveils 50 new nuclear-capable short-range missiles - North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un showcased 50 new launch vehicles for nuclear-capable short-range missiles.
- Kim's sister acknowledged South Korea's apologies related to drone incursions while emphasizing North Korea's need for heightened border security.
- The developments indicate North Korea's strategic shift towards enhancing military capabilities amidst increasing tensions with South Korea.
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business Feb 13, 2026, 4:11 PM
Google struggles for map data access in South Korea after 19 years - For 19 years, Google has sought permission to export detailed map data from South Korea but has been denied.
- Google's operations in South Korea are complicated by the reliance on government-funded base maps, which are crucial for commercial mapping services.
- The outcome of this situation could significantly influence the economic dynamics between Google and South Korea.
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business Feb 12, 2026, 5:55 AM
U.S. job growth surpasses expectations with 130,000 new jobs in January - U.S. employers added 130,000 jobs in January, indicating a stabilizing labor market.
- Asian markets like Japan and South Korea hit record highs amid positive investor sentiment.
- The job growth and political changes signal a complex economic landscape affecting global markets.
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business Feb 12, 2026, 5:55 AM
U.S. job report beats expectations as Asia markets rise - Asian markets saw increases, especially in Japan and South Korea, with major indices reaching new highs.
- The U.S. Labor Department reported a significant increase in jobs added in January, surpassing forecasts.
- Analysts expect this job growth to influence future Federal Reserve policies on interest rates.
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technology Feb 4, 2026, 11:58 PM
South Korea leads global surge in low-quality AI content consumption - South Korea has emerged as the top consumer of AI-generated low-quality content.
- The country experienced the largest increase in generative AI usage globally in 2025, with significant adoption rates.
- Experts and government officials are concerned about the implications of AI slop on content ecosystems and are implementing regulations.
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politics Feb 4, 2026, 4:27 PM
South Korea implements strict tobacco regulations on nicotine-based products - The South Korean government will classify all nicotine-based products as tobacco products to address unregulated sales.
- Revisions to the Tobacco Business Act, including the introduction of stricter advertising and usage regulations, will take effect on April 24, 2026.
- These changes aim to close loopholes in tobacco control and minimize youth access to vaping products.
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business Feb 3, 2026, 5:01 AM
Asian shares surge as investors regain confidence in technology stocks - Asian shares experienced a significant increase, particularly in South Korea, with heavy investment in tech stocks.
- The Nikkei 225 in Japan also saw gains, reaching a record high amidst a wave of positive investor sentiment.
- Overall, the market is resonating with renewed confidence and is closely watching upcoming earnings reports for indications of future trends.
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politics Jan 31, 2026, 7:43 AM
Pokemon cancels event after igniting backlash from China - A Pokemon card game event at Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine was scheduled for January 31, 2026.
- The event faced a backlash from China, leading to the Pokemon Company's apology.
- The event's cancellation highlights the ongoing sensitivities surrounding Japan's wartime past.
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science Jan 30, 2026, 11:04 AM
South Korea faces extreme cold temperatures as chill sets in - South Korea saw record low temperatures of minus 17 degrees Celsius on January 30.
- The severe cold has been ongoing for nearly 10 days.
- Weather experts predict a gradual easing of cold temperatures starting February 1.
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politics Jan 26, 2026, 11:20 PM
Trump hikes tariffs on South Korean imports to 25% - In January 2026, Trump announced an increase in tariffs on South Korean imports.
- The tariff increase is a reaction to South Korea's failure to approve a trade framework.
- This move may complicate U.S.-South Korea relations and impact global markets.
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politics Jan 23, 2026, 11:11 PM
Pentagon reduces role in deterring North Korea as South Korea prepares military strength - The Pentagon's new policy document released on January 23, 2026, indicates a transfer of North Korea deterrence responsibilities to South Korea.
- South Korea has been increasing its defense budget and military capabilities, emphasizing its readiness to confront threats from North Korea.
- This strategic shift suggests a significant reorientation of U.S. military roles in the Indo-Pacific region, prioritizing flexibility and diplomacy.
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politics Jan 23, 2026, 11:31 AM
South Korea imposes travel bans over drone flights into North Korea - Three civilians in South Korea were banned from traveling abroad due to an investigation regarding alleged drone flights into North Korea.
- North Korea accused South Korea of conducting surveillance drone flights, leading to heightened tensions between the two nations.
- The South Korean government is looking into civilian involvement in these drone flights, amid efforts to revive discussions with North Korea.
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politics Jan 20, 2026, 5:46 AM
Taiwan ramps up defense capabilities to deter Chinese threats - Deputy Foreign Minister François Chih-chung Wu emphasized Taiwan's commitment to improving national defense capabilities.
- China's military modernization poses significant challenges to the stability in the Taiwan Strait.
- Taiwan's defense enhancements aim to ensure security and are crucial for maintaining regional stability in light of Chinese aggression.
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politics Jan 16, 2026, 12:49 PM
Former South Korean president faces five years in prison for arrest obstruction - A South Korean court sentenced former President Yoon Suk Yeol to five years in prison for charges linked to obstructing his lawful arrest.
- The court found that Yoon had misused his presidential powers during the December 2024 martial law crisis.
- The verdict emphasizes significant legal repercussions for presidential misdeeds in South Korea.
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business Jan 14, 2026, 7:41 AM
South Korea's obsession drives Dubai chewy cookie sales to 1.8 million - The Dubai chewy cookie trend began in South Korea after Jang Won-young posted about it on Instagram.
- The cookies are made from chocolate marshmallow stuffed with pistachio cream and knafeh shreds, resembling rice cakes more than traditional cookies.
- The strong demand has led to an increase in prices for key ingredients and has sparked a frenzy among consumers, with some stores limiting purchases.
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entertainment Jan 13, 2026, 4:16 PM
BTS gears up for world tour after military service - BTS members have completed their mandatory military service, allowing for their long-anticipated return to the stage.
- The world tour, which will feature over 70 shows across multiple continents, starts in April 2026.
- The comeback tour is expected to be highly significant for fans, marking a major moment for the K-pop group after their hiatus.
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business Jan 11, 2026, 6:43 PM
South Korea breaks records with $1.52 billion in ramyeon exports - South Korea's ramyeon exports have achieved a record high of $1.52 billion in 2025, reflecting an 11-year growth trend.
- China and the U.S. are significant markets, collectively accounting for over 40% of total ramyeon exports.
- With increasing global demand and expansion plans by leading noodle producers, South Korea aims for continued growth in its K-food exports.
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military conflicts Jan 4, 2026, 4:16 AM
North Korea displays military might by launching ballistic missiles before summit with South Korea - North Korea launched ballistic missiles from its capital region toward the sea on January 3, 2026.
- The missile launches occurred shortly before the South Korean President's diplomatic trip to China for discussions with President Xi Jinping.
- These actions reflect North Korea's ongoing military demonstration strategy and raise concerns about regional and global security.
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military conflicts Dec 25, 2025, 3:20 AM
Kim Jong Un accelerates North Korea's naval nuclear capabilities - North Korea displayed images of a largely completed nuclear-powered submarine hull.
- Kim Jong Un condemned South Korea's plans for its nuclear submarine as an offensive act.
- The submarine's completion is seen as a significant advancement in North Korea's military capabilities.
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politics Dec 24, 2025, 9:07 PM
Kim Jong Un lashes out at South Korea's nuclear submarine plans - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected a nearly completed nuclear-powered submarine.
- During the visit, he criticized South Korea's plans to build a similar vessel, viewing it as a threat.
- The developments indicate an ongoing arms race that may exacerbate regional tensions.
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politics Dec 24, 2025, 9:43 AM
South Korea enacts strict penalties against false information in media - The South Korean National Assembly passed a bill to combat fake news with significant punitive measures for media outlets.
- Concerns about potential censorship and vague definitions of misinformation were raised by journalist groups and civil liberty advocates.
- The legislation reflects a global trend towards stricter regulations against disinformation while sparking debates on freedom of expression.
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business Dec 15, 2025, 11:31 PM
UK secures £2 billion in exports with new South Korea trade deal - The UK government has extended its tariff-free trade agreement with South Korea, ensuring 98% of goods remain tariff-free.
- The deal protects £2 billion of UK exports from increased tariffs that were to take effect in January 2026.
- Officials believe this trade agreement will support British jobs and economic growth, showcasing the importance of maintaining strong trade ties.
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business Dec 12, 2025, 6:08 AM
South Korea ends VAT refund for foreign cosmetic surgery patients - The South Korean government confirmed the cessation of the VAT refund system for foreign cosmetic surgery patients effective December 31, 2025.
- The cosmetic surgery sector has seen rapid growth, with a record 1.17 million foreign patients visiting South Korea in 2024 and significant financial contributions from these patients.
- Industry groups warn that this policy change could lead to reduced competitiveness and attract fewer international patients to South Korea.
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2026 All rights reserved
2026 All rights reserved