-
As of January 14, 2026, gold, silver, and copper prices have surged to historic highs amid geopolitical tensions following the U.S. capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Markets reacted with mixed moves: Asian stocks mostly rose, oil prices fluctuated, and precious metals soared due to safe-haven demand and expectations of U.S. interest rate cuts. Supply constraints and industrial demand linked to AI and electrification underpin metals' rallies.
-
South Korea will end international adoptions by 2029, amid UN criticism over past abuses and systemic issues. The government aims to improve domestic care and address unresolved cases of falsified records and abuse, following pressure from UN investigators and victims' advocates.
-
A fire in Guryong Village, a shanty town on Seoul's outskirts, was contained after about six hours. Over 1,200 personnel responded, with no reported injuries. The fire highlights ongoing issues of inequality and unsafe housing in the area, which has a history of recurrent fires due to combustible materials.
-
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is in China for a four-day trip, his first since June, aiming to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties. The visit occurs as North Korea tests hypersonic missiles and regional tensions rise over Taiwan and Japan. Leaders signed cooperation agreements on trade, technology, and regional security.
-
On New Year's Eve 2025, Sydney held a minute of silence and a menorah projection on the Harbour Bridge to honor 15 victims of a December 14 mass shooting at a Hanukkah event. Despite heightened security with thousands of armed police, celebrations continued citywide, reflecting resilience amid fears of rising antisemitism and terrorism in Australia.
-
South Korean President Lee's four-day trip to China marks his first visit since June, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties amid regional tensions. He will meet Xi Jinping to discuss security, economic cooperation, and peace efforts on the Korean Peninsula, amid ongoing US-China-Japan tensions over Taiwan and North Korea.
-
South Korean actor Ahn, known as 'The Nation’s Actor,' died at 74 in Seoul after battling blood cancer. He appeared in over 180 films, winning five Grand Bell Awards, and was celebrated for his humility and versatile roles. His death was announced by his management and hospital on January 5, 2026.
-
On January 27, 2026, North Korea launched two ballistic missiles into the East Sea, marking its second missile test this month amid rising tensions with South Korea. The launches followed accusations by Pyongyang of South Korean civilian drone incursions, which Seoul denies. South Korea and Japan have increased defense cooperation, while the U.S. urges Seoul to take a leading role in regional security.
-
On January 16, 2026, former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was convicted by a Seoul court of obstructing justice and abusing power related to his failed December 2024 martial law declaration. The ruling is the first of eight trials, with a verdict on the more serious insurrection charge expected February 19. Prosecutors seek the death penalty for Yoon.
-
Former South Korean president Yoon was found guilty of abusing presidential power to block arrest warrants during his attempt to impose martial law in December 2024. The court sentenced him on charges including rebellion and document fabrication, marking the first conviction in eight criminal trials related to his actions. Yoon plans to appeal.
-
Han Duck-soo, 76, was sentenced to 23 years for his role in facilitating South Korea's martial law declaration in December 2024. The court found him guilty of insurrection, perjury, and document falsification, marking a significant legal precedent for future trials related to the event. Han plans to appeal.
-
Kim, ex-wife of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, was cleared of charges but later sentenced for corruption and accepting lavish gifts. Her legal troubles are linked to her political influence and associations with the Unification Church amid ongoing trials of Yoon and others.
-
On February 10, 2026, South Korea announced a phased increase in medical school admissions from 3,058 in 2026 to 3,548 in 2027, reaching 3,871 by 2030. The plan aims to address regional healthcare shortages, especially in rural areas, following a healthcare crisis triggered by trainee doctor strikes in 2024-2025 over previous proposed increases.
-
Recent articles highlight shifts in AI-related work culture, side hustles among young professionals, and concerns over intense work schedules. Stories include AI's social role on Moltbook, rising burnout in Silicon Valley, and the evolving job landscape driven by AI advancements.
-
North Korea warns of severe retaliation if drone provocations continue, following recent incidents involving South Korean drones. Kim Yo Jong emphasized that any violation of sovereignty will trigger responses beyond proportionality, amid ongoing investigations into drone flights and tensions with Seoul. The story highlights escalating military tensions in the region.
-
Russian-Australian historian Andrei Lankov was detained and expelled from Latvia while preparing to give a lecture on North Korea. Latvia's authorities reportedly blacklisted him, citing concerns over his views. Lankov, who lives in Seoul, believes his objective analysis of North Korea led to his ban. He is now in Estonia.
-
South Korea's National Assembly is set to approve a bill establishing a public investment vehicle, amid US pressure over delays in a trade deal. The legislation aims to manage US investments in sectors like semiconductors and shipbuilding, following negotiations and threats of tariffs. The move reflects ongoing tensions in US-South Korea trade relations.
-
BTS performed a free concert at Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul, marking their first album release in nearly four years. The event celebrated Korean heritage with songs from 'ARIRANG' and showcased the group's cultural significance after completing mandatory military service. Tens of thousands attended or watched online.
-
BTS released their sixth album 'Arirang' on March 20, 2026, marking their first performance in nearly four years after completing military service. The album, named after a Korean folk song, features 14 tracks blending pop, hip-hop, and traditional Korean elements. They kick off a global tour with a livestreamed concert from Seoul, drawing massive local and international attention.
-
On March 20, 2026, BTS marked their return after a four-year hiatus with a highly anticipated concert in Seoul, drawing tens of thousands of fans and city-wide celebrations. The event follows the group's military service and solo projects, boosting South Korea's cultural and economic profile.