North Korea–US/ROK Tensions: Pyongyang condemned the US approval of nearly $300 million in advanced air-to-air missile sales to South Korea, calling it “war exports,” while Seoul and Washington held a nuclear consultative meeting in Seoul to deepen joint responses to DPRK nuclear and missile advances. Court & Politics: South Korea’s ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol was sentenced to 30 years over the North Korea drone operation, with reporting also pointing to a broader martial-law plot and follow-on legal fallout. Elections & Governance: Protests over ballot shortages continued for a ninth day in Seoul, with voters demanding a re-run after voting was suspended at 26 polling stations; the election commission said there’s no basis to redo results. Defense Readiness: The military suspended flights of LAH-1 Miron helicopters after engine defects tied to corrosion were found across multiple units, with inspections and quality-system fixes planned. Economy & Industry: South Korea and Italy agreed a 2026–2030 strategic action plan to boost high-tech cooperation, including semiconductors, critical materials, and auto manufacturing, alongside regular high-level political coordination. Public Services & Costs: Gasoline and diesel prices in South Korea fell for a fourth straight week as global oil prices eased on hopes of an Iran-related de-escalation. Culture & Society: Seoul hosted Pride celebrations despite ongoing legal gaps on LGBTQ+ protections, with the city’s mayor again drawing criticism for past comments. Tech & Business: Weverse briefly went down during BTS Yoongi’s live stream, frustrating fans before service was restored.