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National

The engine and cockpit panel of the crashed Jeju Airplane are undergoing a detailed investigation.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has launched a detailed investigation into the Jeju Air disaster, focusing on key components such as the engines and cockpit panels. All 179 deceased victims have been transported to funeral homes for ongoing procedures.

Investigators have retrieved major parts of the wreckage, including two engines and the cockpit panel, and are analyzing remaining components like the wings. A cockpit voice recorder transcript was completed, and the flight data recorder (FDR) was sent to the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board to assess damage and extract data.

A special inspection of six airlines operating the B737-800 model has been extended to Friday, examining maintenance history, operational records, and workforce management. Navigation safety facilities at 13 airports, including Incheon, Gimpo, and Jeju, are also being inspected.

The government plans a joint memorial service and coordinates with local governments for support. Meanwhile, Muan International Airport's runway closure has been extended to January 15 to accommodate the investigation.

Economy

South Korea becomes the first Asian country to join Horizon Europe.

South Korea has become the first Asian nation and the third non-European country, after New Zealand and Canada, to join Horizon Europe, the world's largest multilateral research and innovation (R&I) funding program. The membership officially began on January 1, 2025, under the initiative led by the European Union, with a budget of €95.5 billion ($98.5 billion) for 2021-2027.

South Korea will participate in Pillar II of Horizon Europe, focusing on joint research to address global challenges and enhance industrial competitiveness. Korean researchers will have equal access to research funding and collaborative opportunities alongside their European counterparts. Additionally, South Korea will participate as an observer in the program committee.

Science Minister Yoo Sang-im highlighted that this membership offers a significant opportunity to strengthen South Korea's research collaboration with Europe, a global leader in science and technology.

Travel Guide Korea

What Power Outlets do you need while you travel Korea?

Korea primarily uses 220-volt power systems. Many modern buildings also offer 110-volt outlets, making it convenient for international travelers. [link]

K-pop

J-Hope reflects on his emotional 2024 and hints at exciting plans for 2025.

BTS member J-Hope shared a heartfelt New Year message on Weverse, reflecting on his emotional 2024 and looking forward to 2025. He described 2024 as a year filled with mixed emotions, from excitement and anxiety surrounding his military discharge in October to feeling both tense and thrilled for the year ahead. J-Hope became the second BTS member to complete his service, following Jin's discharge in June, with the remaining members set to be discharged by June 2025.

J-Hope expressed hope that fans could reflect on 2024 with warmth and wished for everyone to "bloom beautifully" in 2025. He also shared that the coming year felt particularly significant for him and promised to show fans many things. Additionally, J-Hope recently made headlines for donating 100 million won ($75,000) to the families of victims of the Dec. 29 Jeju Air crash, extending his condolences and support to those affected by the tragedy.

Job Post

We are recruiting table clearing and kitchen assistants on weekends from 12 pm to 3 pm

Working conditions: Part-time, full-time

Work area: Suji -gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do

Salary: Hourly wage of 14,000 won

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YouTube PD Recruitment (Targeting the US)

Working conditions: Contract worker, freelancer

Work area: Seongbuk- gu, Seoul

Salary: Decision after discussion

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