Water & Public Health: UNESCAP’s Urban SDG Knowledge Platform published a Lead Service Line Replacement Cost Calculator case study, aiming to help cities plan fair, climate-resilient drinking-water upgrades across Asia-Pacific. Plastic Reduction: Korea’s environment ministry signed a pact with 23 major food and beverage chains to phase out single-use plastics at 22,000+ stores, with discounts for bringing tumblers and “no straw unless requested” rules starting in September. Heat & Disaster Risk: South Korea issued its first emergency heatwave warning under a new rating system, as extreme temperatures strain safeguards and public health. Energy Transition Debate: Seoul is watching policy signals as Korea considers whether to add more nuclear plants and small modular reactors to meet electricity demand from semiconductors, AI data centers, and industrial growth. Semiconductor Land-Use Pressure: The government is proposing to relocate a South Korea–U.S. air base and build a semiconductor complex at the site—raising questions about how infrastructure expansion reshapes local environments. Wildlife & Heritage: Seoul Grand Park reopened a redesigned Japanese macaque habitat with a nature-based approach, while a new Insa Historic Sites Museum opened to showcase preserved Joseon-era ruins. Climate Extremes Nearby: North Korea warned of Typhoon Bavi with heavy rain and strong winds, urging “maximum vigilance” to limit damage.