At the biennial International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition held in Seoul last week, local defense companies have signed contracts worth US$128 million and the industry held consultations which could amount to US$22,5 billion if finalized

Travel bans have been imposed on three civilians accused of flying drones toward North Korea from Ganghwa, allegedly photographing a Marine base; case widened as links emerged to former presidential staff and military intelligence–related online outlets

2026 economic master plan aims at a “great economic leap,” forecasting 2% GDP growth; government plans substantial investments in semiconductors, AI, defense and biotech, new fiscal policy, price stabilization and measures to boost consumption

Former oceans minister was summoned by police over a bribery scandal involving the Unification Church: prosecutors allege he received cash and a luxury watch in exchange for backing church-linked projects; Chun denies the claims as raids widen the probe

A sovereign fund and an export fund will be launched in 2026; finance ministry plans better management of state assets, new U.S.-focused investment tools under the recent tariff deal, and measures to foster AI industries and strengthen economic security