韩国2026财年预算增8.1% AI与半导体获重点支持

Core Points - The South Korean government approved the national budget for the fiscal year 2026, totaling 727.9 trillion won (approximately 35 trillion yuan), representing an 8.1% increase from the 2025 budget [1][2] - The final budget reflects a slight reduction of about 1 trillion won compared to the initial draft, indicating a cautious adjustment under fiscal discipline [1] - The budget focuses on two main areas: enhancing support for livelihoods and accelerating the cultivation of future growth drivers [1] Budget Allocation - The "Regional Love Voucher" program, aimed at providing consumer subsidies to local residents, received a budget allocation of 1.15 trillion won [1] - The government established a "National Growth Fund" with a dedicated investment of 1 trillion won, focusing on supporting strategic high-tech industries such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and biotechnology [1] - Despite an overall inclination to increase support for high-tech sectors, specific budget allocations for artificial intelligence-related support, policy funds, and contingency expenses were reduced by approximately 200 billion won compared to the draft [1] Economic Strategy - The 2026 budget aims to boost domestic demand and solidify the foundation for future industries as a dual strategy to address current economic growth pressures and build a support system for long-term competitiveness [2] - The budget will be submitted to the National Assembly for review, with the final execution dependent on legislative approval [2]