Seoul’s in the news for rising tensions with North Korea over drone threats and recent military tests, amid ongoing political and cultural shifts.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
South Korea is increasing its defense cooperation with allies, including expanding military industry partnerships and supporting vessels stranded in regional waters. The moves follow recent high-level visits and ongoing regional security concerns, with a focus on strengthening deterrence and regional stability.
Ramsey Khalid Ismael, known as Johnny Somali, has been found guilty in Seoul of multiple charges, including creating sexually explicit deepfake content and disrupting public order. The court has ordered his immediate detention, citing flight risk. His actions have sparked widespread outrage and legal action since 2024.
Yoon has been charged with benefiting an adversary and abusing his powers related to his brief martial law declaration in December 2024. He has been indicted on multiple counts, including drone infiltrations into North Korea, which heightened tensions. His trial continues as prosecutors seek a 25-year sentence for his former defense minister. The Seoul court is expected to rule soon.
North Korea has attended a memorial ceremony in Pyongyang marking the first anniversary of North Korean troops fighting alongside Russia in the Kursk region. Kim Jong Un has praised the soldiers' heroism, while Russia and North Korea have agreed to deepen military cooperation through a new treaty covering 2027-2031. The event highlights North Korea's ongoing support for Moscow amid the Ukraine conflict.