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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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BTS held a free concert at Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul, performing songs from their new album 'ARIRANG' after a four-year hiatus. The event celebrated Korean heritage and culture, drawing tens of thousands of fans and emphasizing the group's global influence and cultural significance.
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On March 20, 2026, BTS released 'Arirang,' their first full album since completing South Korea's mandatory military service. The album sold nearly 4 million copies on its first day and topped charts in the UK, Australia, and Germany. On March 21, BTS performed a historic comeback concert in Seoul's Gwanghwamun Square, streamed live on Netflix to 18.4 million viewers worldwide.
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Seoul's highly anticipated BTS concert drew thousands of fans and extensive security measures, but actual attendance was lower than expected. Fans traveled from around the world, many waiting hours for tickets, while local businesses faced disappointing foot traffic amid the event's elaborate preparations. The event highlights BTS's cultural influence and the city's economic ambitions.
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The US government is advancing its AI strategy with significant industry backing, including a new $100 million initiative led by the Innovation Council Action, which aims to influence policy and support Trump-aligned efforts. Meanwhile, AI's role in military and ethical debates continues to grow.
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Polish Prime Minister Tusk will visit South Korea on Sunday, marking the first bilateral visit in 27 years. The trip focuses on deepening defense cooperation, including recent multi-billion-dollar arms deals and strategic discussions on regional security and geopolitical issues, including the Middle East conflict.