Monday, November 9, 2026Korea
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Ruling Party Rally at Gyeongbokgung Palace Condemns Manipulated Prosecution Bill
Photo: 매일경제
In short
The ruling Democratic People Power Party took to the streets in opposition to the passage of the Manipulated Prosecution Special Counsel Act.
Party Chair Jang Dong-hyuk told President Lee Jae-myung, 'Impeachment is the only answer.'
The bill is scheduled to be presented at the Cabinet meeting on November 10.
Key facts
When
A street rally by the Democratic People Power Party was held in front of Gyeongbokgung Station in Seoul on November 7.
Who
Party Chair Jang Dong-hyuk and other party leadership, along with approximately 70 lawmakers from the party, attended.
What
They condemned the passage of the Manipulated Prosecution Special Counsel Act and called for President Lee Jae-myung's impeachment.
How
Attendance was estimated at 150,000 by the party and approximately 6,000 by police.
What it means for me
Depending on whether the special counsel act is implemented, confrontation between the government and opposition is expected to continue for some time.
International · 5 sources combinedp. 2 / 25
France protests enter 4th week 600,000 march against high prices
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
French citizens took to the streets protesting soaring prices.
Over 600,000 people participated in a general strike on November 5th, a weekday.
Protests continued on November 7th, and the government agreed to meet with labor unions on the 9th.
Key facts
When
After a general strike on November 5th, the fourth weekend protest was held on the 7th.
Who
Labor unions, students, teachers, healthcare workers, and railway workers participated.
What
They demanded wage and pension increases, saying prices are rising while wages and pensions remain unchanged.
How
70,000 police were deployed; 448 were arrested and 53 police officers were injured.
What it means for me
Though international news, it serves as a reference case for the growing burden of living costs due to high inflation.
Policies · 4 sources combinedp. 3 / 25
NHIS advances AI capabilities 10.7 billion won project announced
D-23 Deadline December 2 · Deadline for recruiting AI project participating companies
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
The National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) is advancing its AI consultation and work assistant services.
Participating companies are being recruited until December 2, with a budget exceeding 10 billion won being invested.
AI voice consultation will be improved to better understand customer intentions in their questions.
Key facts
When
Participating companies are being recruited until December 2, and an explanation meeting for the proposal request was held on the 9th.
Who
The National Health Insurance Service is promoting the '2026 Intelligent AX Enhancement Project'.
What
The project will enhance AI voice consultation, chatbots, and employee work assistants at a scale exceeding 10 billion won.
How
Implementation of intent recognition models, integration of chatbot consultation functions, and expansion of consultation knowledge scope.
What it means for me
Citizens using NHIS consultation services may experience more accurate AI voice consultation and chatbot responses.
Economy · 9 sources combinedp. 4 / 25
Blue wave shocks stock market KOSPI drops 11% in two days
Photo: 매일경제
In short
KOSPI fell nearly 11% over November 5th and 6th.
Democrats won big in U.S. midterm elections, raising concerns about data center regulations.
Large-cap semiconductor stocks like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix fell sharply.
Key facts
When
KOSPI closed at 5059.69 on November 6th, down 6.02% from the previous day.
Who
Large-cap semiconductor stocks including Samsung Electronics (down 6.35%) and SK Hynix (down 10.44%) led the decline.
What
Over two days, KOSPI fell 624.11 points (10.98%), down 44.5% from June's peak.
Why
Democrats won decisively in U.S. midterm elections, raising concerns about data center regulations.
What it means for me
Increased domestic stock market volatility may cause short-term fluctuations in investor asset values.
Culture · 3 sources combinedp. 5 / 25
Director Kim Young-bin passes away Sudden hospitalization, age 72
D-1 Deadline November 10 · Departure date
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
Director Kim Young-bin, who made the films 'Kim's War' and 'Terrorist,' has passed away.
He was hospitalized suddenly on the 8th and passed away at age 72.
After working as an assistant director under Director Lim Kwon-taek, he debuted in 1992 and received numerous awards.
Visitor info
Funeral home
Room 3, Wooju Funeral Hall, Goheung-eup, Goheung-gun, South Jeolla Province
Departure
9 a.m. on the 10th
Burial site
Seoul Metropolitan Memorial Park
Key facts
When
Director Kim Young-bin passed away due to sudden hospitalization on the 8th. He was 72 years old.
Who
A former assistant director under Director Lim Kwon-taek, he debuted in 1992 with 'Kim's War.'
What
He won the triple crown of rookie director awards including the Blue Dragon Film Award for 'Kim's War.'
How
The funeral home is at Wooju Funeral Hall in Goheung, South Jeolla Province, with departure at 9 a.m. on the 10th.
What it means for me
The news of a veteran film director's passing has no direct impact on readers' daily lives.
Society · 3 sources combinedp. 6 / 25
Highly pathogenic avian flu in Yeoju Third confirmed case this month
D-8 Deadline November 17 · National disinfection week ends
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed at a laying hen farm in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province.
This is the third case detected at poultry farms this month.
The government has reduced inspection cycles at laying hen farms nationwide to once every two weeks and strengthened disinfection measures.
Key facts
When
Highly pathogenic avian flu was confirmed on November 7 at a laying hen farm in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province.
Where
It is a laying hen farm in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province, where approximately 260,000 birds are raised.
What
It has been confirmed as H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza. This is the third occurrence this month.
How
Culling and epidemiological investigation are underway, and inspection cycles for laying hen farms nationwide have been shortened to once every two weeks.
What it means for me
Prices of eggs and other livestock products may fluctuate, so consumers should monitor the situation.
Policies · Planned · 2 sources combinedp. 7 / 25
Jeollanam-do·Gwangju 2030 Classrooms 200 new rooms next year
D-21 Deadline November 30 · Deadline for 2030 Classroom designation applications
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
The '2030 Classroom', where personalized lessons are taught to students, will expand in Gwangju and Jeollanam-do.
200 new 2030 Classrooms will open next year: 70 in Gwangju and 130 in Jeollanam-do.
Applications are accepted through the end of this month, on-site visits occur in December, and final selections are confirmed by year-end.
Key facts
When
An explanatory meeting was held at Gwangju Education Research Institute on November 6, 2026, and next year's plan was announced.
Who
Jeollanam-do·Gwangju Integrated Special Education Office is promoting the expansion of 2030 Classrooms.
What
200 additional 2030 Classrooms will be created next year: 70 in Gwangju and 130 in Jeollanam-do.
How
Applications are accepted through the end of November, followed by on-site visits and teacher meetings in December, with target classrooms finalized by year-end.
What it means for me
Parents and students in Jeollanam-do and Gwangju regions may see 2030 Classrooms established in their children's schools.
Politics · 8 sources combinedp. 8 / 25
President Lee approval at 36.9% PPP, DP within margin of error
Photo: 매일경제
In short
President Lee Jae-myung's job approval rating rose to 36.9% in one week.
The gap between People Power Party and Democratic Party support narrowed within the margin of error.
This is the result of a survey by Realmeter of 2,515 eligible voters nationwide.
Key facts
When
The survey was conducted October 26–30, with results released November 2.
Who
Realmeter surveyed 2,515 eligible voters nationwide at the request of Asia Economy.
What
President Lee's approval was 36.9%, People Power Party 40.2%, Democratic Party 38.3%.
How
Approval rose 1.6 percentage points from the previous week, disapproval fell to 60.1%.
What it means for me
As a poll showing public opinion trends, it has limited direct impact on daily life.
International · Under review · 10 sources combinedp. 9 / 25
Trump offers UFC chief White House spokesman role
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
President Trump asked UFC Chairman Dana White to serve as White House Press Secretary.
He also requested that White bring six mixed martial arts fighters on as aides.
Chairman White reportedly declined the offer.
Key facts
When
On November 7 (local time), President Trump posted on social media platform Truth Social.
Who
President Trump made the proposal to UFC Chairman Dana White, a longtime associate.
What
He offered the White House Press Secretary position and asked White to bring six fighters as aides.
How
CNN reported, citing sources, that Chairman White declined the proposal.
What it means for me
Readers interested in U.S. politics can reference this as an example of White House personnel turmoil.
Politics · 10 sources combinedp. 10 / 25
Choi In-ho Appointed Chief Secretary for Political Affairs HUG President Tapped for Senior Blue House Post
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
President Lee Jae-myung appointed Choi In-ho, the president of HUG (Korea Housing & Urban Guarantee Corporation), as the new Chief Secretary for Political Affairs on the 6th.
Secretary Choi is a two-term lawmaker from Busan and is considered a pro-Moon politician.
The Blue House explained that this appointment is a decision for internal party unity.
Key facts
When
On November 6th, President Lee Jae-myung announced the appointment of the new Chief Secretary for Political Affairs.
Who
Choi In-ho (60), president of Korea Housing & Urban Guarantee Corporation (HUG), has been designated as the new Chief Secretary for Political Affairs.
What
He was appointed as successor to former Chief Secretary Hong Ik-pyo, who announced his resignation.
How
It is interpreted as an attempt to heal factional conflicts within the party by appointing someone from the pro-Moon faction.
What it means for me
This is political news with little direct impact on general readers.
Economy · Planned · 4 sources combinedp. 11 / 25
Eunma Reconstruction Excess Profit Recovery 460M Won Per member notification issued
Photo: 매일경제
In short
The Eunma Apartment Reconstruction Combination in Daechi-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul has been notified of an average contribution of 463.34 million won per member for Reconstruction Excess Profit Recovery (REPR).
This is a contribution for the Reconstruction Excess Profit Recovery system that taxes profits gained from reconstruction projects.
The number of reconstruction complexes in Seoul that have been notified or announced REPR contributions has increased to 53.
Key facts
When
Gangnam-gu Office notified the Eunma Apartment Reconstruction Combination of the contribution estimate on November 6.
Who
The Eunma Apartment Reconstruction Combination (4,424 households) in Daechi-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul is the subject of notification.
What
An average contribution of 463.34 million won per member, totaling approximately 2.044 trillion won for the entire complex.
How
The Korea Real Estate Board calculated based on a completion date of October 15, 2035, and this is not a final confirmed amount.
What it means for me
If you own or plan to purchase a reconstruction apartment, it is necessary to check the size of additional contributions in advance.
If considering purchasing a reconstruction complex, the REPR contribution could affect property prices and should be verified.
If you are a member of a reconstruction combination like Eunma Apartment, note that the notified amount may differ from the actual payment amount.
Society · Planned · 9 sources combinedp. 12 / 25
Man in 40s kills ex-partner Personal details to be disclosed on 9th
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
A woman in Daejeon who had reported stalking by her ex-partner was killed.
The 40-year-old male suspect fled after the crime but was arrested in Gangneung.
Police decided to disclose his personal information, and it is expected to be released around the 9th after an objection period.
Key facts
When
It happened on October 24 at a multi-unit residential building in Jung-gu, Daejeon.
Who
A 40-year-old man surnamed A killed a 40-year-old woman surnamed B, his ex-partner.
What
Woman B had reported man A's stalking to police about a year ago.
How
Police decided on personal information disclosure on November 2, and it is expected to be released around the 9th after an objection period.
What it means for me
This case demonstrates that even when stalking is reported, contact with the perpetrator may not be completely cut off.
Economy · 4 sources combinedp. 13 / 25
Goyang Ilsan Techno Valley Site sales begin today
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
Goyang City started accepting applications on the 9th for advanced manufacturing facility sites in Ilsan Techno Valley.
The city will attract biotech and media companies to approximately 870,000 square meters in Daehwa-dong and Beobgot-dong, Ilsanseo-gu.
Companies purchasing 3,300 square meters or more will receive up to 800,000 won per square meter in subsidies.
Visitor info
Location
Daehwa-dong and Beobgot-dong area, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang City, Gyeonggi Province
Scale
Approximately 870,000 square meters (260,000 pyeong), targeted for completion by end of 2027
Key facts
When
Application acceptance for advanced manufacturing facility sites began on the 9th, with knowledge-based facility site applications also planned for late this month.
Where
The site covers approximately 870,000 square meters (260,000 pyeong) in Daehwa-dong and Beobgot-dong, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang City, Gyeonggi Province.
What
The city is supplying sites for advanced industries focused on biotech and medical, media and content sectors.
How
Companies purchasing 3,300 square meters or more receive up to 800,000 won per square meter in location subsidies and tax benefits.
What it means for me
Companies considering relocation to the area should review location subsidies and tax incentives.
Working professionals can refer to job information from new companies moving into the Ilsan area.
Self-employed business owners in Ilsan should pay attention to potential commercial district changes from incoming companies.
Culture · 5 sources combinedp. 14 / 25
Chiikawa holds 4th week at #1 Crosses 2.58 million cumulative viewers
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
The Japanese anime film 'Chiikawa: The Secret of Mermaid Island' held the weekend box office #1 spot for the fourth consecutive week.
From October 30 to November 1, over four days, 221,657 people watched the film.
It reached 2,583,855 cumulative viewers, ranking 7th all-time for Japanese anime releases in Korea.
Key facts
When
Box office results were tallied for the weekend from October 30 to November 1, over four days.
What
The Japanese anime film 'Chiikawa: The Secret of Mermaid Island' took first place for the fourth consecutive week.
Result
Over four days, 221,657 viewers watched, bringing cumulative attendance to 2,583,855.
Performance
It briefly lost the top spot to 'Heart of a Beast' starring Brad Pitt, then reclaimed #1 the next day.
What it means for me
This box office news has limited impact on finances or daily life, but is worth noting for planning movie visits.
A sergeant in his 20s was found dead at an Army front-line unit in Cheorwon, Gangwon Province.
On the morning of November 2, a unit member discovered him collapsed with blood on his head.
Military and police are jointly investigating the exact cause and circumstances of the incident.
Key facts
When
It occurred around 7:15 a.m. on November 2.
Where
It happened at a front-line outpost in Cheorwon County, Gangwon Province.
Who
Sergeant A, in his early 20s, died.
What
He was found collapsed with blood on his head and passed away.
What it means for me
As an incident occurred during military service, readers with children or family members in the military may need to pay attention.
International · 8 sources combinedp. 16 / 25
Trump replaces chief of staff Wiles out, Miller picked
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
U.S. President Trump has replaced White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles with Stephen Miller.
Miller, who has led hardline anti-immigration policies, will assume office starting November 9.
The personnel change comes four days after Republicans lost their majority in both chambers of Congress in the midterm elections.
Key facts
When
President Trump announced the replacement on November 6 (local time), and Miller will start his duties on the 9th.
Who
Chief of Staff Susie Wiles stepped down, and Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller was named as her successor.
What
Miller, former senior policy advisor in Trump's first administration, has led large-scale policies for deporting undocumented immigrants.
How
The personnel move comes four days after Republicans lost their majority status in both the House and Senate in the November 3 midterm elections.
What it means for me
If U.S. immigration, tariff, and corporate policies become more hardline, it could affect domestic export companies and Korean-American communities.
Health · Planned · 3 sources combinedp. 17 / 25
Telemedicine starts Dec 24 First-time patients: 7-day prescription limit
Photo: 복지타임즈
In short
Starting December 24, telemedicine becomes an official system.
New patients can generally receive prescriptions for up to 7 days.
Both the medical community and patient groups oppose the new standards.
Key facts
When
Telemedicine becomes an official system starting December 24.
Who
The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced detailed standards on October 19.
What
General care requires an in-person visit within 6 months; first-time patients are allowed only at clinics in the same city or province.
How
First-time prescriptions are generally limited to 7 days; narcotics and weight-loss drugs are prohibited.
What it means for me
Starting December 24, telemedicine eligibility will vary depending on your symptoms.
If you have a regular hospital, you can use telemedicine based on visits within 6 months.
If you frequently visit a clinic for chronic conditions, telemedicine access becomes easier.
Society · 6 sources combinedp. 18 / 25
Man in 60s threatens hospital staff with weapon, damages police vehicle
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
A man in his 60s threatened medical staff with a weapon at a hospital in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province.
He did this after receiving treatment, saying his headache had not improved.
He also threatened an arriving police officer with the weapon and damaged a patrol car.
Key facts
When
The incident occurred around 11 a.m. on November 5.
Where
It happened at a clinic in Seolak-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi Province.
Who
A man in his 60s, identified as A, was apprehended by police.
What happened
He threatened a doctor and nurse with a weapon and also threatened an arriving police officer with it.
What it means for me
Concerns are being raised that small hospitals also lack security personnel and may face similar threats.
Living · 6 sources combinedp. 19 / 25
So vs. Furrido KS Game 3 starter matchup
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
KT and Samsung each won one game in the Korean Series.
Game 3 held in Daegu on the 6th featured starters So Hyung-jun and Ariel Furrido facing off.
Both pitchers have shown strong performance in the postseason.
Key facts
When
Korean Series Game 3 was held at Samsung Lions Park in Daegu on November 6.
Who
KT Wiz's So Hyung-jun and Samsung Lions' Ariel Furrido took the mound as starters.
What
The two teams, having split one win each in Suwon, moved the series to Daegu to continue competition.
How
So Hyung-jun faced off with a 1.48 career postseason ERA, while Furrido brought 2 postseason wins.
What it means for me
For baseball fans following the KBO Korean Series, this Game 3 was a pivotal moment that could shift the series momentum.
Living · 6 sources combinedp. 20 / 25
Kim Min-sol vs Seo Gyo-rim KLPGA season finale ends
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
Kim Min-sol and Seo Gyo-rim faced off in the KLPGA season finale.
The tournament was held from November 6 to 8 at Seowon Valley CC in Paju, Gyeonggi Province.
Total prize money was 1.2 billion won, with 300 million won for the winner.
Key facts
When
The tournament was held over four days from November 6 to 8 at Seowon Valley CC in Paju, Gyeonggi Province.
Who
As of November 3, prize money leader Kim Min-sol and second-place Seo Gyo-rim competed.
What
It was the season finale that determined major titles including the money leader and player of the year.
Sixty players—the top 56 in prize money standings and four recommended players—competed in 54 holes with no cut.
What it means for me
Golf fans should check the season's final title winners decided by this tournament.
Economy · 6 sources combinedp. 21 / 25
4.8 quadrillion won vanishes overnight US AI regulation concern shock
Photo: 한국경제
In short
Democrats won control of both chambers in the US midterm elections.
Global stock market capitalization shrank sharply in one day due to AI regulation concerns.
Korea's KOSPI also fell over 6% and dropped below the 5,000 line.
Key facts
When
New York stock market crashed on November 5 (local time) and spread to Asian markets on the 6th.
Who
Democrats took control of both chambers, local government in the November 3 midterm elections.
What
Global stock market capitalization of 3.5 trillion dollars (approximately 4.8 quadrillion won) disappeared in one day.
How
NASDAQ fell 5.52%, KOSPI fell 6.02%, closing KOSPI at 5,059.69.
What it means for me
Stock investors should monitor volatility in AI and semiconductor-related stocks for some time.
If your retirement pension includes overseas stock products, it is worth checking changes in return rates.
If your pension savings include semiconductor and AI-related assets, it is worth confirming the changing situation.
Living · 5 sources combinedp. 22 / 25
Gumi Ramen Festival Opens 22,231 Special Ramen Sold
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
A ramen festival was held in Gumi, North Gyeongsangbuk-do for four days from November 6 to 8.
On the first day, 22,231 bowls of special ramen were sold, up 47% from last year.
A queue of 500 meters stretched all day long for freshly fried ramen.
Visitor info
Location
Approximately 475 meters from Gumi Station to Wonpyeong-dong area, Gumi City, North Gyeongsangbuk-do
Period
November 6–8, 2026 (four days, already concluded)
Participants
25 ramen restaurants, 8 ramen food trucks, and 33 food vendors total
Key facts
When
It was held around Gumi Station in North Gyeongsangbuk-do for four days from November 6 to 8.
Who
The festival has been held jointly by Gumi City and Nongshim since 2022, and this year is the fifth edition.
What
On the first day, 22,231 bowls of special ramen were sold, recording sales of 177 million won.
How
A waiting line for freshly fried ramen stretched about 500 meters all day long.
What it means for me
If you plan to visit Gumi, it is worth checking next year's festival dates and peak hours.
Finance · 5 sources combinedp. 23 / 25
Kakao Bank launches Stealth Account November 9 debut, 1.19% annual rate
Photo: 연합뉴스
In short
Kakao Bank launched a new 'Stealth Account' on November 9.
Your account is only visible at times and places you set.
You can hide your account by designating up to three locations like home or work.
Key facts
When
It launched on November 9.
Who
Kakao Bank issued it and anyone age 19 or older can open one.
What
A deposit and withdrawal account viewable only at up to 3 GPS-based locations like home or work within 100 meters.
How
It does not connect to other banks' open banking or other Kakao Bank products, and debit card or ATM withdrawals are not allowed.
What it means for me
If you have money you want to hide from family or acquaintances, you can choose a restricted viewing account.
Politics · Planned · 4 sources combinedp. 24 / 25
Prosecutor General candidates announced Lee Jung-hyun, Park Chul-woo, Ye Se-min in contention
Photo: 매일경제
In short
The Ministry of Justice is expected to hold a Prosecutor General Candidate Recommendation Committee meeting on November 9.
Lee Jung-hyun, Park Chul-woo, and Ye Se-min are being discussed as candidates for the inaugural Public Prosecutors Office (새로운 공소청) head.
If the committee narrows it to three or more nominees, the acting minister will recommend one to the president.
Key facts
When
The Ministry of Justice is expected to hold the Prosecutor General Candidate Recommendation Committee meeting on November 9.
Who
Lee Jung-hyun, Vice Director of the Public Prosecutors Office; Park Chul-woo, Head of Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office; and lawyer Ye Se-min are being discussed.
What
The recommendation committee will recommend three or more candidates to the Ministry of Justice minister.
How
Lee Jin-soo, Vice Minister of Justice, as acting minister will recommend one of them to the president.
What it means for me
General readers should watch this appointment as it will affect changes to the prosecution organization structure and investigation system.
Culture · 4 sources combinedp. 25 / 25
Lim Yun-chan five consecutive performances Addresses overwork concerns with explanation
Photo: 한국경제
In short
Pianist Lim Yun-chan (22) has directly addressed concerns about five consecutive performances.
The November 7 Seoul Arts Center performance changed to a concerto performance, extending the schedule by one day.
Lim Yun-chan said the conductor and orchestra decided together and he will ensure adequate rest.
Key facts
When
He stated his position on October 26, and five consecutive performances will run from November 5 to 9.
Who
Pianist Lim Yun-chan (22), conductor Marin Alsop, and the Philadelphia Orchestra will perform together.
What
They will perform Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 3 consecutively over five days.
How
The November 7 solo performance at Seoul Arts Center changed to a concerto performance, extending the schedule by one day and sparking controversy.
What it means for me
It serves as a reference for readers interested in classical performance schedules and performer health management issues.
