N.K. Conducts Nuclear and Missile Tests

North Korea conducted a nuclear bomb test on Jan. 6 and received severe criticism from the international society. However, about a month later, on Feb. 4, N.K. tested a missile that can reach the U.S. These two tests resulted in tension between nations, including the two Koreas, the U.S. and China. Additionally, Gaeseong Industrial Complex, cooperatively operated by South and North Koreas, is in crisis, and it puts many South Korean corporations and businesses in difficulty.

Economy Activation

President Park Geun-hye called on citizens to sign a legislative plan for economy activation. She also joined the signature campaign on Jan. 18 in person at Pangyo station. This president’s participation in the campaign was a first for South Korea.

Spring Begins

Spring flowers including Cherry blossoms, forsythias and azaleas are going to be in full blossom on April 2 in Seoul. Other regions located in the south such as Je-ju Island, Busan and Daegu are expected to see blooms around the middle of March. The flowering times are earlier than on average because the temperatures between March and April will be higher than average year-temperatures.

Ease in Syrian Civil War

The U.S., Russia and 17 other nations agreed to implement a plan for a cessation of hostilities. The plan covers humanitarian aid to isolated areas in Syria and refugees in Germany, Jordan and Turkey. Also, a U.N. task force team will be formed to establish a long-term cessation and reduce the pain of war. However, the peace agreement will not include IS and terrorist groups.

Oil Price Drops

Iran has undersold their rival, Saudi Arabia, because it was released from international sanctions. Iran offered a cheaper price than Saudi Arabia, by as much as $1.25 per barrel of oil. However, the rival rejected OPEC’s suggestion to reduce its oil price to retain the market quota.