Forestry for peace: South Korea’s Korea Forest Service minister argues that inter-Korean cooperation—especially forestry—could help reverse decades of North Korean forest degradation, citing major losses since the 1990s and renewed interest during 2018 summits. Aid access: UNDP administrator Alexander De Croo says there’s no immediate plan to reopen the agency’s North Korea office, but it could return “if things change,” after earlier disruptions and funding diversion allegations. Heat risk: A UK heatwave safety report warns that cold-water shock can be deadly even when air temperatures are high—an indirect reminder of how climate extremes raise drowning and health risks. Border enforcement: Daily NK reports Chinese smugglers tried to move goods into North Korea but were repeatedly turned back by Chinese border patrols, with crackdowns continuing despite hopes for easing after Trump’s China visit. Missile tests with AI claims: North Korea test-fired multiple tactical systems under Kim Jong-un, including an “AI-guided” tactical cruise missile, signaling faster, more precise strike capabilities near the DMZ. Inter-Korean contact: North Korea’s women’s football return to South Korea is framed as a test of engagement under Pyongyang’s two-state approach, highlighting how slowly Seoul has adapted its legal and political stance. Maritime security push: The Quad announced new Indo-Pacific maritime surveillance and port initiatives, warning that disruptions to shipping can hit fuel, food, and fertilizer security.