## Major News Summary (January 21, 2025) * **Bank of Korea Lowers This Year's Growth Outlook to 1.6-1.7%**: Political uncertainty stemming from December's emergency martial law declaration is expected to contract economic sentiment and lower the growth rate. * **Oil Prices Surge Ahead of Lunar New Year Holiday; Seoul Gasoline Prices Poised to Enter 1,800 Won Range**: Domestic oil prices are rising, with average gasoline prices at Seoul gas stations reaching 1,798 won, with potential for sharp increases during the Lunar New Year holiday period. * **Korean Medical Association Refuses Dialogue Despite Government's Special Exception for Medical School Expansion Policy**: Conflict between the medical community and government persists over inducing the return of resigned resident physicians and demanding educational measures. * **2028 College Entrance Exam: Integrated Social and Science Subjects Confirmed at 25 Questions**: Exam time for each section is 40 minutes, with scores also tripled in their weighting. * **Single Home Owners Cannot Deduct Monthly Rent**: Homeowners cannot receive income tax deductions for housing loan repayments or tax deductions for monthly rent payments.
