Politics

• Impeachment Proposal to Be Voted: The opposition party plans to vote on the impeachment of the president on the 7th, with some ruling party lawmakers also calling for voluntary resignation.
• Martial Law Controversy: President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration and subsequent lifting of martial law have faced strong criticism from religious and political circles.
• Declining Presidential Trust: Some ruling party lawmakers criticize the president for losing authority and trust from the public.
• Religious Criticism: Religious groups such as the Catholic Church and Won Buddhism issued statements condemning the declaration of martial law.

Economy

• Domestic Stock Market Decline: KOSPI fell nearly 1% due to foreign sell-offs, closing at 2,441.85.
• Falling Apartment Prices: Despite the central bank’s interest rate cuts, strict loan regulations have caused apartment prices to drop for the third consecutive week.
• Finance Influencers Prosecuted: The Financial Services Commission uncovered cases of unjust profits through stock recommendations.
• Pension Efficiency Debate: The National Pension family-dependent allowance is criticized for providing insufficient support, prompting calls for reduced eligibility.
• TDF2025 Investment Stability: Retirement pension investors face less than a 1% risk of loss when holding investments for five years.

IT/Technology

• Google Cloud AI Model Announcement: Google unveiled its latest video AI model, ‘Veo,’ and image generation tool, ‘Imagen 3.’
• AI-Driven Organizational Restructuring: SK Telecom reorganized its structure around telecommunications and AI for next year, appointing new executives.
• Samsung CES 2025 Presentation: Samsung plans to unveil its “AI for All” strategy at CES 2025.
• KT Safe QR Service: KT introduced a login-free service to prevent crimes involving QR code phishing.
• Hancom Data Security Solution: Hancom released xDB 5.0, a solution integrating structured and unstructured data security technologies.

Industry

• Next-Gen Semiconductor Equipment Development: Domestic companies focus on developing PECVD equipment for next-generation semiconductor processes.
• Railroad Union Strike: Train cancellations and delays caused significant inconvenience to citizens.
• Samsung Electro-Mechanics Achieves Zero Landfill Waste: All domestic and international sites received Platinum certification.
• SK Innovation Restructuring: Focused on achieving synergies from mergers and improving business efficiency.
• Classys Export Growth: Aesthetic medical company awarded $100M Export Tower.

Environment

• Zero Landfill Certification: Samsung Electro-Mechanics achieved Platinum certification for all sites.
• Eased Nitrogen Emission Standards: The Ministry of Environment is considering easing emission regulations at the industry’s request.
• ESG Excellence Award: SC First Bank recognized for outstanding corporate governance.
• Greenhouse Gas Reduction Talks: Cement industry engages in discussions to adjust NOx reduction standards.
• Seoul’s Eco-Friendly Urban Plan: New recycling policies announced.

International

• Korean Fermentation Culture Added to UNESCO Heritage: The traditional method of fermenting sauces has been designated as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
• U.S. Green Card Inquiries Rise: Demand for consultations increases despite stricter immigration policies.
• International Trade Achievements: Domestic companies celebrated for their export milestones on Trade Day.
• Japan Open Innovation Event: Twenty Korean startups showcased technologies in Tokyo.

Games

• Global Launch of ‘Journey of Monarch’: NCSoft’s new title released in 241 countries, gaining rapid popularity.
• ‘Sudden Attack’ Final Season: Offers 2024 season-themed weapons and skin upgrades.
• Blizzard Free Trial: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 offers a free trial period for players.
• KakaoGames 500-Day Event: MMORPG ‘Ares’ marks its milestone with special rewards and events.
• Ragnarok Winter Event: Players benefit from increased experience and drop rates.

Culture

• Trending Drama/Movies: Netflix’s ‘Trunk’ explores the nature of love and societal norms.
• Success of Busan International Film Festival: Foreign guest stays and attendance increased significantly.
• Women in Film Award: Actress Ra Mi-ran receives the 2024 Women in Film Award.

Real Estate/Construction

• Large-Scale Apartment Supply: Over 2,000 units to be supplied in Jeonju next January.
• LH Presale Delay: Delays in presale finalizations cause financial losses for buyers.
• Twin Tower Boom: Incheon to introduce the landmark “Cheongna Finance Center” twin towers.
• Pyeongtaek Housing Development: Korea Land and Housing Corporation awards KRW 126.2 billion project to Gyeryong Construction.

Finance

• Finance Influencers Prosecuted: Financial fraud schemes using stock recommendations uncovered.
• Pension Efficiency Debate: Calls to reduce eligibility for family-dependent pension allowances.
• TDF2025 Investment Stability: 5-year investment plans for retirees show minimal loss risks.
• SNS Finance Scams Unveiled: Authorities discover large-scale fraud schemes through online financial advice rooms.

Health

• Winter Burn Prevention: Tips include cooling burns with water and seeking emergency care for severe cases.
• Kimchi Donation Drive: Com2uS supports disabled families by donating 800kg of kimchi.
• National Health Policy Focus: Public health system stabilization amid political turmoil.

Society

• Safety Award Ceremony: Seven citizens recognized for life-saving actions in emergencies.
• Railroad Strike Impacts: Increased inconveniences due to ongoing wage-related strikes.
• Winter Break Discounts: Travel apps and city events offer special promotions for students.
• Weather Report: Rain or snow expected in central and western regions starting tonight.

Sports

• Korea Baseball Association Meeting: Elected new chairman and discussed plans for the 2024 season.
• Domestic eSports Events: New updates and character releases from global game developers.
• Athletes’ Charity Work: Prominent sports figures actively support local communities.