South Korea–France Security Reset: President Lee Jae Myung and Emmanuel Macron signed agreements to deepen defense and security cooperation, including upgraded military secret information protection and work toward mutual logistics support, while both sides flagged North Korea’s military support for Russia as a growing threat. North Korea Border Tensions: South Korea’s military said it is monitoring repeated North Korean MDL incursions—more than 20 times in August—while maintaining readiness. Strait of Hormuz Dilemma: Seoul said no decision has been made on any troop deployment as it weighs options amid U.S. pressure, even as lawmakers warn against getting drawn into a war without justification. Domestic Politics Under Heat: The National Assembly is set to begin interpellation sessions amid partisan clashes over Cabinet reshuffles and nominees, including Justice Minister pick Kim Seung-won and Gender Equality Minister nominee Yong Hye-in. Jobs Snapshot: Employment rose by 184,000 year-on-year in August, the biggest gain in five months, but youth employment rates kept sliding. Korea–U.N. Mine Safety Deal: Seoul and UNDP signed an agreement to expand mine clearance cooperation, shifting toward public-safety and land recovery standards. AI and Culture Diplomacy: Naver proposed “AI factory” cooperation with France, while Korea and France also pushed film and audiovisual investment ties.