Politics
- Trump Assigns Mission to End Russia-Ukraine War: Former President Donald Trump appoints an 80-year-old military general to handle the war resolution.
- South Korea Faces Challenges Restoring Russia Ties: Trump’s election complicates South Korea’s diplomatic approach due to defense system requests.
- Grain Law Amendment Controversy: Opposition party pushes back against reducing rice cultivation and structural reforms, forcing a third vote.
- Han Dong-hoon Advocates for Token Securities Regulation: Calls for legal frameworks to address practical challenges of STO (Security Token Offerings).
Society
- Heavy Snowfall in Capital Region Causes Damage: Wet snow leads to significant human and structural impacts in central South Korea.
- Second Baby Boomer Generation Faces Dual Care Burden: 25% simultaneously support both parents and children, raising concerns over financial security in retirement.
- Approval of Mokdong’s 14th District Redevelopment: Plans confirmed for a mammoth complex with a maximum of 49 stories.
Economy
- Bank of Korea Cuts Key Interest Rate: A surprise drop to 3.00% shocks the financial market.
- EcoPro BM Prepares for KOSPI Transfer: The KOSDAQ’s second-largest company sees stock prices soar amid transition news.
- National Pension Recipients Exceed 7 Million: Over 44,000 beneficiaries receive annual payments exceeding 24 million KRW.
- Increased Consumer Spending Drives Economic Growth: U.S. Q3 growth revised to 2.8%, reflecting robust consumption.
- Semiconductor Support Plan Announced: South Korea enhances support amid fierce global competition but faces criticism for lack of depth.
- Hyundai Motor Share Buyback Praised: Stockholder-friendly measures bolster investor confidence.
International
- Taylor Swift Ranked Second in Billboard’s 21st Century Pop Stars: The global pop icon secures her place on Billboard’s prestigious list.
- Luxury Coffee Draws Attention in Fuzhou: A single cup priced at 70,000 KRW offers a unique experience.
- Disney Cruise Launches Christmas-Themed Voyage: Special holiday-themed cruises to Australia and New Zealand unveiled.
- Rural Chinese Cliff Café Gains Popularity: Stunning views and premium coffee attract nationwide attention.
- EU Parliament Demands TikTok CEO Appearance: Scrutiny over social media’s influence and data protection continues.
Technology/IT
- NCSoft Celebrates 100 Days of ‘Hoyon’ with Events: Updates include new heroes and various rewards for players.
- Smilegate Launches ‘STOVE Link’: Remote play service connects PC games with mobile platforms seamlessly.
Culture
- Go Hyun-jung’s Talk Show Appearance Creates Buzz: Reflects on past romance and resumes TV presence.
- Han Kang Ends Independent Bookstore Operations: Announces withdrawal from ‘Bookshop Today’ management via SNS.
- Kim Hyung-seok Recognized by Oxford University: The renowned artist begins creative activities as a global scholar.
- Mun Hoon-sook Highlights 40 Years of Korean Ballet: Universal Ballet’s director shares insights on the company’s legacy.
- Lee Seo-won Publishes New Book: ‘That’s What I Wanted to Hear’ garners public interest.
Health/Medical
- Coffee Intake Linked to Longevity: Consuming 1–2 cups daily positively impacts survival rates.
- DeepMedi Introduces Biometric Analysis Technology: Opens a new chapter in health measurement and management.
- Promoting Tennis and Fitness Culture: Efforts expand to nurture young talents and encourage active lifestyles.
Environment
- Severe Snowfall Intensifies Damage in Capital Area: Transport and infrastructure severely affected by heavy snow.
- Semiconductor Industry Support Plan Criticized: Government faces backlash over insufficient measures.
- EV Adoption Aims to Reduce Carbon Emissions: Focus shifts to transitioning public vehicles with eco-friendly technology.
Real Estate/Construction
- Sangdo 15 Redevelopment Project MOU Signed: Dongjak-gu housing redevelopment takes a step forward.
- Phase 1 New City Reconstruction Announced: Redevelopment plans revealed for 36,000 housing units.
- Mokdong 14th District to Become a Massive Complex: Approval granted for a maximum of 49 stories.
- Stronger Urban Redevelopment Regulations in Seoul: Government emphasizes public rental housing utilization.
Finance
- Hyundai Motor’s Stock Buyback Receives Praise: Shareholder-friendly policy increases market optimism.
- SK Hynix Strengthens Shareholder Returns: Target stock price raised, boosting long-term investment appeal.
- Domestic Insurers Expected to Gain Market Share in 2024: Samsung Fire’s target stock price maintained at 420,000 KRW.
Gaming
- Netmarble Releases ‘King Arthur: Legends Rise’: A medieval dark fantasy RPG launches globally.
- New Legendary Pokémon Added to Pokémon GO: Updates feature Reshiram, Zekrom, and more.
- ‘Path of Exile 2’ Enhances Action Elements: Introduces new genres and improved gameplay mechanics.
- ‘Ragnarok Origin’ Updates Include New Areas: Additions feature the Doram Kingdom and new character classes.
- ‘Lineage M’ Adds Multiple New Features: Class reworks and additional skills announced.
- Kakao Games Debuts ‘Path of Exile 2’ in Korea: Improved combat and growth systems emphasized.
- Niantic Expands ‘Monster Hunter Now’ with New Creatures: Adds a winter-themed update featuring large monsters.
- Blomix Opens Pre-Launch for ‘Tales Runner RPG’: Brings popular IP to mobile in subculture RPG format.
- Riot Games Unveils New TFT Content: Features from Arcane Season 2 added to the update.