Feb. 16: New anti-money laundering rules take effect
The Measures for the Administration of Special Preventive Measures for Anti-Money Laundering, issued by the People’s Bank of China and seven other departments, come into force. The regulation requires financial institutions to establish sound internal control systems for special preventive measures and prohibits any entity or individual from unauthorized lifting of such measures.
Feb. 16: ByteDance’s Doubao kicks off Spring Festival giveaway
As a key partner for the China Media Group’s 2026 Spring Festival Gala, ByteDance’s AI assistant Doubao will distribute cash red packets and more than 100,000 gifts on New Year’s Eve. Users participating in the live interaction will have three chances to win cash prizes of up to 8,888 yuan ($1,276) or physical gifts.
Feb. 18: Japan’s Parliament to elect prime minister
Japan’s Parliament will hold a vote on Feb. 18 to elect the next prime minister, with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi almost certain to win when it convenes for the start of the 150-day special Diet session on the same day. The elected leader will immediately form a cabinet, and if the current administration continues, it aims to pass the fiscal 2026 budget and other bills.
Feb. 19: White House plans Gaza Peace Committee meeting
U.S. officials say the White House intends to host a leadership meeting in Washington to discuss the Gaza Peace Committee. The event is viewed as a critical step for implementing the second phase of a ceasefire agreement and fundraising for reconstruction.
Feb. 19: Court to deliver verdict on Yoon Suk Yeol
The Seoul Central District Court is scheduled to issue a first-instance ruling on former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol regarding charges of insurrection. In closing arguments, prosecutors requested the death penalty for Yoon, who is accused of leading an internal rebellion.
Feb. 19: Apple expected to launch iPhone 17e
Tech media reports suggest Apple Inc. may release the iPhone 17e, featuring MagSafe wireless charging with power up to 25 watts. The device is expected to retain a single rear camera and the notch screen design, with the Dynamic Island feature likely reserved for future iterations.
Feb. 22: Brazil’s Lula visits South Korea
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will begin a state visit to South Korea, his first in 21 years. He is scheduled to hold a summit with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung on Feb. 23 to sign cooperation agreements aimed at advancing bilateral relations across multiple sectors.
