President Lee Prioritizes NK‑U.S. Dialogue Lee vowed diplomacy to restart North Korea‑U.S. talks, framing diplomatic engagement as a driver for broader regional interaction. He announced the plan during a New Year press conference, emphasizing swift action to create conditions for inter‑Korean dialogue. The statement signals a renewed emphasis on dialogue amid ongoing tensions. [1]

Government Targets Won Stabilization Near 1,400 Lee said financial authorities expect the won to firm to around 1,400 within one or two months and pledged measures to stabilize the foreign‑exchange market. He highlighted the need to curb currency weakness that threatens economic stability. The comment responded to lingering concerns about the won’s impact on households and exporters. [1]

Court to Deliver Verdict on Former Prime Minister Seoul court is set to issue a verdict on charges that former Prime Minister Han Duck‑soo abetted President Yoon Suk‑yeol’s failed martial‑law attempt on Dec 3 2024. Han would become the first cabinet member sentenced over the emergency decree, which the National Assembly lifted after roughly six hours. The case marks a rare legal reckoning for high‑level officials involved in the 2024 emergency order. [1]

Hanwha Appoints Canadian Naval Veteran for Submarine Bid Hanwha Ocean Co. appointed Glenn Copeland, a former Royal Canadian Navy officer, as CEO of its new Canadian unit. Copeland will lead Hanwha Defence Canada as it pursues the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project bid, signaling the firm’s intent to compete for Ottawa’s submarine contract. The appointment underscores South Korea’s push to expand defense exports to North America. [1]

Prime Minister Kim Plans First Overseas Trip to U.S. Prime Minister Kim Min‑seok will travel to the United States this week for meetings with senior officials and a possible encounter with Vice President J.D. Vance. The itinerary includes stops in Washington and New York and outreach to the Korean diaspora, marking his first overseas trip as prime minister. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss trade, security, and investment. [1]

BTS Granted Conditional Filming Permission at Historic Sites Cultural heritage authorities granted conditional approval for BTS to film at Gyeongbok Palace and Sungnyemun gate as part of the group’s comeback promotion. The approval links the shoot to historic landmarks while a subcommittee will assess the project’s impact on cultural assets before final clearance. The decision balances cultural preservation with contemporary entertainment demands. [1]