President Lee Jae-myung (이재명) said 2026 will be the year a bold dream begins for an \"irreplaceable Korea\" that no country can replace. Marking his first year in office, he said South Korea will open a new era of the \"K initiative\" by building on national experience, capabilities and public energy to overcome crises. He outlined four policy goals covering industry-led growth, diplomacy and security, enforcement of rules, and protecting lives through a stronger social safety net.

Chung Yong-jin (정용진), chairman of Shinsegae Group, issued a public apology over a Starbucks Korea marketing controversy. He apologised to families of the May 18 Democratic Uprising, the family of activist Park Jong-chul, citizens of Gwangju and the public. Shinsegae had already dismissed Starbucks Korea CEO Son Jeong-hyeon and an executive. Chung said he would accept full responsibility, order an investigation and disclose results, overhaul marketing reviews across affiliates and conduct history and ethics training for staff.