Analysis
South Korea tests its Hormuz limits as Trump pressure builds across alliance
Seoul is weighing a limited maritime role that could protect energy flows while setting a new baseline for US demands
September 4, 2026
South Korea’s record 2027 budget puts the chip windfall under central control
A new 162 trillion won fund and 55-year overhaul of education transfers shift more fiscal power to the executive branch
September 3, 2026
South Korea’s game giants are quickly outgrowing the traditional export model
Foreign studios and acquisitions are changing how major Korean publishers create value as overseas revenue keeps rising
August 28, 2026
South Korea’s tourism boom faces a fresh test as China ties improve again
Record visitor arrivals are more diversified than a decade ago, but a firmer won and China’s return will test spending
August 26, 2026
US Treasury’s ‘zero-leakage’ Iran push creates fresh risks for South Korea
Korean firms face tighter screening and Hormuz exposure, while Washington’s strategy still depends heavily on China
August 25, 2026
South Korea’s Arctic gamble could pay off even if the route stays niche
PanStar Acro’s pilot may matter most for shipbuilding, ports and expertise even if regular service stays limited
August 24, 2026
Trump’s UFS decision raises stakes for South Korea on OPCON and submarines
Washington’s abrupt exercise cut shows how unrelated disputes could complicate Seoul’s biggest defense priorities
August 21, 2026
South Korea’s retirement age push could make companies hire fewer young workers
Hyundai dispute revives evidence that keeping older staff longer can weaken youth hiring without wider labor reform
August 20, 2026
Trump’s Iran demand ignores the limits of South Korean military power abroad
Seoul lacks the access, logistics and strategic incentive to sustain combat operations far from the Korean Peninsula
August 19, 2026
South Korea-Japan ties weather history as ACSA and CPTPP tests now loom
Seoul and Tokyo can contain historical disputes, but deeper military and economic ties face domestic political limits
August 18, 2026
