Italy–South Korea Diplomacy: President Sergio Mattarella and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung agreed to upgrade ties into a special strategic partnership, with talks focused on semiconductors, AI, defense manufacturing, aerospace, energy and biotech. World Cup Kickoff in the Spotlight: The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins with Mexico vs South Africa at Estadio Azteca, with Shakira and Burna Boy among performers at the opening ceremony; FIFA also rolled out a bigger 48-team format and a “fan-centered” pre-match concept. Labor Rights Probe in Milan: Italian prosecutors are investigating Montgomery, Alabama-based Caddell Construction over alleged wage exploitation of foreign workers on the U.S. consulate project in Milan, including claims of illegal deductions and long workdays. Culture & Design: A new exhibition in New York, “Tarot! Renaissance Symbols, Modern Visions,” traces tarot’s Renaissance roots through contemporary art. Fashion Sustainability Debate: A Paris Good Fashion and Make.org consultation found many consumers in France, Italy, the UK and the U.S. still don’t understand sustainable fashion, calling for clearer information and education. Italian Heritage Abroad: Haiti was forced to change its World Cup jersey design after FIFA deemed it too political, replacing a depiction tied to the 1803 independence war.