North Korea-Russia Ties: Kim Jong Un sent Putin a letter pledging “invariable support,” calling Russia’s war “sacred,” as Seoul watches for any further troop moves. Digital Divide: The government is training seniors to survive without smartphones and apps, highlighting how older Koreans get left behind in everyday services. Labor & Shipbuilding: Wage talks at South Korea’s big three shipbuilders are at a breaking point ahead of Chuseok, with unions warning of joint action if no deal lands by Sept. 18. Defense Procurement: South Korea approved an additional 20 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters by 2032 to boost anti-submarine and anti-ship capabilities. Economy & Trade: Import prices fell for a third straight month as the won strengthened, while export volume kept double-digit growth on semiconductor demand. Markets Mood: Asian shares stayed cautious as oil prices rose and investors weighed AI slowdown talk and upcoming central bank decisions. Seoul-Central Asia Summit: Foreign Minister Cho Hyun urged deeper cooperation with Central Asia on resources, supply chains, and AI ahead of the first Korea-Central Asia summit in Seoul. Housing Costs: Lunchflation is pushing young Seoul residents toward cheaper, smaller meals as prices keep climbing. Tech & Security: Samsung Electronics Service earned South Korea’s top ISMS-P personal data security certification, underscoring tighter protections for customer information.