Marssonina blotch in apples and pear scab are diseases that may affect apple and pear production as well as related industries significantly. The range and scale of the economic influence of such outbreaks should be clarified to ensure the sustainable growth of these industries. This study evaluates the direct and indirect economic effects of outbreaks through a partial equilibrium approach and an input–output model; direct influences are measured on the basis of reduced production, and the estimated costs are 34,926 million Korean Won (mKRW) (US$ 29.79 million) and 11,767 mKRW (US$ 10.04 million) for apples and pears, respectively. The indirect effects are determined according to changes in the quantity of apples and pears supplied to the market; these effects can induce social welfare losses. These costs are estimated to be 305,065 mKRW (US$ 259.08 million) for apples infected with Marssonina blotch, which accounts for 186,628 mKRW (US$ 158.50 million) in producer surplus and 118,437 mKRW (US$ 100.58 million) in consumer surplus and 72,693 mKRW (US$ 61.74 million) for pears infected with scab, which accounts for 44,106 mKRW (US$ 37.46 million) in producer surplus and 28,587 mKRW (US$ 24.28 million) in consumer surplus. The findings from this study can be referenced by the Korean government in designing more effective control measures toward sustainable growth of related industry.

The accelerating climate crisis is driving a rapid increase in interest in climate technologies aimed at overcoming it. However, even if effective technologies emerge, their impact may be hindered without public acceptance. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the factors that influence the acceptance of new climate technologies. This exploratory study investigates the key factors influencing public acceptance and the recommendation of climate technologies in South Korea. Utilizing an extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model, survey data from 200 participants were analyzed. The study identified that facilitating conditions, innovativeness, social influence, and trust in government are the most significant predictors of public intent to accept or recommend climate technologies. The results highlight the critical role of strategic communication, infrastructure, and public trust in promoting the adoption of climate solutions. Furthermore, qualitative interviews suggest that a shift towards Personally Determined Contributions (PDCs) could empower individuals to become proactive agents in climate action. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers, providing a strategic direction to enhance the public’s engagement with climate technologies and foster a more sustainable future.

North Korea has been isolated from the international community because of high-intensity sanctions. Nonetheless, research on North Korea should continue so that we are prepared not for contingencies that may occur because of sudden political changes in that country, as occurred after the unification of Germany and dissolution of the Soviet Union, and also to cope with future risks and threats wisely. This study conducted a quantitative survey regarding “inter-Korean cooperation in science and technology,” targeting experts at the Korean government-funded research institutes. As a qualitative survey, focus group interviews (FGI) were conducted to gain insights into the possibilities, considerations, and procedures for inter-Korean cooperation in science and technology. This study is the first to conduct quantitative research on inter-Korean exchange and cooperation in science and technology and shows significant statistical results.