Electricity Rate Cut Insufficient for Steel Industry, Calls for Additional Support The South Korean government has decided to reduce industrial electricity rates outside the capital region by up to 10%. However, industry experts argue that this measure is insufficient to alleviate the financial burden on the steel sector. They advocate for separate support measures utilizing government finances and funds to facilitate the transition to electric and hydrogen-reduced steelmaking.On September 17, the National Assembly Steel Forum, composed of 29 lawmakers from both parties, held September 17, 2026

Child and Youth Sexual Crimes to Be Mandatorily Referred to Prosecution In the future, sexual crime cases involving children and youth will not be closed without prosecution, and all cases will be referred to the prosecution regardless of whether charges are acknowledged.The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family announced that an amendment to the 'Law on the Protection of Children and Youth from Sexual Abuse' passed the National Assembly on the 17th.The core of the amendment mandates that judicial police officers must refer all sexual crime cases involving children September 17, 2026

Prosecutors Charge Yoon Suk Yeol Over Kim Geon-hee's Undisclosed Luxury Gifts Prosecutors have charged Yoon Suk Yeol for failing to report luxury gifts received by his wife, Kim Geon-hee, despite being aware of them. However, they found no evidence to support allegations of election law violations related to Kim's involvement in stock manipulation during the presidential campaign. The Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office's Anti-Corruption Investigation Division 3 announced on September 17 that Yoon has been indicted for violating the Anti-Corruption Law. Yoon is September 17, 2026

2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Set to Begin on September 19 The 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, a major sports festival for 4.8 billion Asians, will kick off on September 19 in Nagoya, Japan. Over 16 days, athletes from across Asia will compete for 469 gold medals. South Korea aims to secure between 40 and 45 gold medals, targeting a third consecutive third-place finish in the overall medal standings.This 20th edition of the Asian Games will commence with an opening ceremony at 6 p.m. on September 19 at the Nagoya Paloma Mizuho Stadium and will run until September 17, 2026

Health and Small Business Ministries Collaborate to Foster 50 K-Pharmaceutical and Bio Startups Annually The South Korean government is joining forces to tackle the significant challenge of funding in drug development, often referred to as the 'valley of death' that occurs after clinical trials begin.The Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises and Startups are launching the 'K-Pharmaceutical and Bio Frontier Company Development Plan,' which aims to support the entire process from drug candidate discovery to clinical trials, regulatory approval, and global mar September 17, 2026

Understanding Real Estate Terms in Model Homes Entering a model home can be overwhelming with unfamiliar real estate terms like exclusive area, bay, flat type, and alpha room. Knowing these terms in advance can help buyers accurately compare the actual size, layout, and options of homes.Understanding area measurements: square meters vs. pyeongWhen discussing real estate, people often ask, "How many pyeong is it?" However, sales announcements and contracts use square meters (㎡). In model homes, it is more accurate to distinguish between excl September 17, 2026

U.S. Rate Hike Anticipated in Japan as Market Awaits Ueda's Comments As the U.S. Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate for the first time in over three years and hinted at further increases this year, Japanese market experts assessed the decision as more hawkish than anticipated. The yen surged to around 156 yen per dollar, while the Tokyo stock market experienced a slight uptick, reflecting relief over the Fed's commitment to price stability, which reduced uncertainty.The Fed adjusted its benchmark rate by 0.25 percentage points to a range of 3.75% September 17, 2026

Minister Park Hong-geun Visits Cheonan Central Market Ahead of Chuseok Park Hong-geun, Minister of the Ministry of Strategy and Finance, visited a traditional market to hear the concerns of small business owners and introduce key support projects included in this year's budget ahead of Chuseok.On September 17, Minister Park visited Cheonan Central Market in South Chungcheong Province, accompanied by officials from the Ministry of SMEs and Startups and the Small Enterprise and Market Service. He toured major stores in the market and shared details about the key supp September 17, 2026

Five Essential Tips for Viewing Model Homes Model homes, often referred to as "the collection of pretty lies," are designed to showcase the ideal living space that many aspire to own. While they represent a dream home, they can also exaggerate certain features. Nonetheless, visiting a model home is essential as it allows potential buyers to preview the structure and offerings of an apartment that has yet to be built.Upon entering a model home, visitors are often captivated by the stunning interiors, lighting, and furniture arrangements. H September 17, 2026

354 Students Granted Relief After Server Crash During College Admissions In an unprecedented server crash just before the deadline for the 2027 college admissions early application period, education authorities have decided to grant relief to 354 students. However, three students who checked competition rates during the one-hour extension and submitted applications were met with strict cancellation recommendations.The Ministry of Education and the Korea Association of University Education (KACE) announced the results of the relief review and the investigation into un September 17, 2026