Seven global companies reported plans for $2 billion in investment at the Invest Korea Summit, with 97% earmarked for areas outside the capital region. The reported amount is not the same as money actually invested, and no overall job creation figure was disclosed.
Democrats’ gains in both chambers of Congress have added uncertainty around U.S. tariffs and AI policy. Korean stocks rose after a volatile session, but chip orders, U.S. long-term yields and the won-dollar exchange rate remain key indicators.
The Kospi fell more than 4% at one point before closing up 0.62% as Democrats appeared poised to regain control of both chambers of Congress. The election alone does not settle tariff policy or AI data center rules, leaving chip demand and policy developments as separate factors to watch.
Wildfire patrols will increase to three times a day during dry, windy weather, with fire-service drones deployed when the wildfire alert reaches “Alert” or higher. Trail closures vary by national park, so check park notices before setting out.
The government announced 12 proposed improvements on Nov. 2, following approval on Oct. 30. CCTV exemptions and simpler procedures for battery recyclers still require further review and legal changes, so they will not take effect immediately.
Smart glasses are prohibited at the 2027 College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), and simply having them in the exam room can invalidate the test. Wearing them or refusing an inspection may also lead to a ban from the following year’s exam, while deliberate cheating could result in a criminal referral.
South Korea’s cumulative exports reached $930 billion from January through October, leaving $70 billion to go before the annual total hits $1 trillion. Semiconductor exports surged, though rising exports do not necessarily mean higher household incomes or a recovery in consumer spending.
South Korea has unveiled a maritime AI strategy aimed at leading the world in orders for fully autonomous ships by 2035. The plan sets milestones for core technology, port testing and workforce development.
POSCO's labor union and management have reached a tentative agreement including a 2.6% base pay raise and a lump-sum payment of 6 million won, after 140 days of negotiations. The deal must still be approved by union members in a vote on November 7 to take final effect.
Hanwha Systems has been named the preferred bidder for South Korea's micro-satellite SAR constellation program, undercutting rival KAI by ₩91.8 billion. The government aims to operate 40 micro-satellites by 2030 to boost surveillance of the Korean Peninsula and surrounding waters.
Scientists in China have uncovered two near-complete skeletons of a 237-million-year-old amphibian that lived entirely in the ocean. Its bony armor is believed to have helped prevent water loss and supported a seafloor-dwelling lifestyle.
U.S. researchers analyzed over a year of satellite imagery showing new construction at a Saudi missile facility west of Riyadh, including a solid-fuel casting pit, suggesting an expansion that could enable longer-range or heavier-payload missile production.
The 30th typhoon of the season, Chaba, is bringing heavy rain and strong winds to Jeju Island and southern South Korea. Flood and strong wind warnings have been issued for parts of Jeju, with up to 250mm of rain expected through October 26.
South Korea's Ministry of National Defense has formally proposed military talks with North Korea to confirm the exact location of the Military Demarcation Line and discuss restoring military hotlines, along with measures to prevent accidental clashes along the border.
Typhoon Champi, the season's 30th typhoon, is moving north-northwest east of Taiwan as of Oct. 23, with passage expected south of Jeju Island on Oct. 25 before weakening into an extratropical low near Japan on Oct. 26. Jeju and Korea's southern regions are bracing for rain and strong winds over the weekend.
