Won Internationalization: South Korea is accelerating efforts to internationalize the Korean won by setting up an offshore settlement framework that lets registered foreign financial institutions trade the won abroad via Bank of Korea networks, with the goal of improving exchange-rate stability. Inter-Korean Civil Contacts: The government backed a bill that would ease restrictions on South Koreans trying to contact North Korean residents by removing the Unification Ministry’s power to reject such requests, while keeping advance reporting requirements. Central Asia Push: Seoul is deepening ties with Central Asia after a Kyrgyzstan summit where 18 agreements were signed, and through KOTRA’s business partnership events aimed at expanding exports, supply chains, and infrastructure cooperation. Finance & Markets: Foreign investors turned net buyers of South Korean stocks in August, while Seoul shares stayed nearly flat as investors digested the U.S. Fed’s first rate hike in over three years. Defense & Security: North Korea again defended expanding its nuclear arsenal, citing a U.S.-led buildup and the growing trilateral alliance with South Korea and Japan. Seoul Life & Culture: The Seoul Street Arts Festival is set to turn the Han River and Seoul Forest into open-air stages this weekend, with performances and “art trekking” routes for families.