Analysis
South Korea makes $350 billion concession to dodge Trump’s tariff hammer
Seoul’s vague investment pledges made under duress trade leverage for short-term reprieve, leaving long-term uncertainty
July 31, 2025
Samsung’s headline-grabbing Tesla chip deal masks its foundry limitations
$16.4B contract does little to address conglomerate’s structural weaknesses, threatening Seoul’s AI and chip ambitions
July 30, 2025
Lee Jae-myung’s foreign policy faces reckoning as US tariff deadline nears
With 25% tariffs imminent, Seoul is under pressure to deliver parity with Japan and EU or recalibrate fast
July 28, 2025
How South Korea bankrolls US lawmaker trips to Seoul to promote its policy goals
Korea Foundation appears to route funding for congressional travel program through US nonprofit, Korea Pro finds
July 25, 2025
South Korea targets arms export reboot with presidential-level defense council
Lee Jae-myung’s proposed control tower aims to fix fragmented export system and boost chances in Poland, Canada bids
July 24, 2025
How South Korea gave $9.4M to US think tanks while evading foreign agent laws
Investigation reveals Korea Foundation coordinates closely with Seoul to promote ROK interests, despite nonprofit status
July 23, 2025
Japanese ruling party’s election loss gives South Korea room to maneuver with US
As Tokyo resists trade concessions in rightward shift, Seoul has a chance to win tariff relief and enhance its position
July 22, 2025
Controversy around gender minister pick threatens Lee Jae-myung’s momentum
Kang Sun-woo’s abuse allegations and rape law stance spark coalition backlash and strain Lee’s early public support
July 21, 2025
ROK’s $6.7B tank deal with Poland offers a foothold in face of EU protectionism
Record pact establishes production partnership likely key to sustaining cooperation as Europe’s arms industry rebuilds
July 18, 2025
Lee completes leadership appointments, paving way for economic, digital reforms
Nominees reflect Lee’s push for legislative reform, private-sector expertise and focus on digital transformation
July 17, 2025
