Ukraine-POW Diplomatic Clash: South Korea’s President Lee Jae-myung warned Kyiv of “additional measures” unless Ukraine acknowledges a confidentiality agreement over the transfer of two North Korean POWs and issues a public apology, as Seoul and Ukraine trade accusations over whether such a deal existed. DMZ Mine Tensions: North Korea’s Kim Yo-jong rejected Seoul’s claim that Pyongyang planted mines after a DMZ blast injured South Korean soldiers, calling the demand for an apology “despicable,” while Seoul insists the incident violated the armistice and says it will respond. Prosecution Overhaul: South Korea abolished the central prosecution service and launched new serious-crimes and public prosecution bodies, but critics flag a messy start—missing leadership, staffing shortages, and delays in personnel arrangements. Alaska LNG & US Energy Deals: Trump again promoted South Korea’s role in Alaska LNG and a broader $200bn energy package, including an $8.4bn oil recovery project, while Seoul pushes back that no final investment decision has been made and ties engagement to commercial viability. Crypto Market Shakeout: Korean crypto exchanges lost about a third of market value and 35% of won deposits in H1 2026 amid trader outflows and limited product diversity. Housing & Foreign Ownership: Foreigners’ multiunit home ownership in Korea neared 100,000, up 30% in three years, while Seoul’s property market shows continued strain with rising home prices and tighter rental supply. Culture & Safety: Film guilds urged restraint over controversy around “The Assassin(s),” warning that threats and personal attacks against cast and crew cross a line.