Asia South Korea Seoul announced a plan to compensate citizens involved in forced labour during the Japanese occupation (1910-1945); public opinion found the proposal humiliating and disrespectful of the historical truth
Asia South Korea A 600-year-old tax ship was recovered off the Coast of Taean: the full remains of a Joseon-era (1392-1910) cargo vessel shed light on how a premodern kingdom managed national taxation, logistics and sea-based infrastructure with surprising complexity
Asia South Korea A nationwide ban on smartphones in elementary, middle, and high schools will start on 1 March 2026 to curb youth addiction and improve focus; it prohibits the use of phones in class, with exceptions for emergencies or approved educational purposes
Asia South Korea First-ever bill to recognize tattooing as a legal profession outside of medical practice has been pre-approved; if passing all stages, it could make tattooists professionals ending a 33-year-old barrier that has led underground the criminalized craft
Asia South Korea A traditional rainmaking ritual called giuje was performed by the Gangneung Danoje Preservation Committee as severe drought is gripping the coastal city of Gangneung; water at Obong Reservoir stood at 18,3% and is projected to last other 22 days