Analysis
Trump’s social media post nearly derails first White House summit with Lee
South Korean president’s flattery contained tensions, but disinformation networks show risks to alliance stability
August 26, 2025
Lee-Ishiba summit signals unity but fails to narrow gaps on China and history
South Korea and Japan pledged deeper ties, but policy divides and weak frameworks risk reducing summit to symbolism
August 25, 2025
Cho Kuk’s return after pardon tests South Korea’s progressive coalition unity
Public backlash, shifting polls and policy divergence raise risk of fragmentation before 2026 and 2028 elections
August 22, 2025
Hidden clause in US nuclear deal puts South Korea’s industrial autonomy at risk
Reported clause granting 50-year oversight and royalties raises sovereignty concerns as KHNP competes for reactor bids
August 21, 2025
South Korea’s military reform risks weakening counterintelligence operations
Experts warn that dispersing counterintelligence functions could hinder readiness against DPRK, China and Russia
August 20, 2025
South Korea turns to Kang Kyung-wha to anchor US alliance in the Trump era
Veteran diplomat’s success hinges on rallying support from Congress, Pentagon and businesses before policy shocks land
August 19, 2025
South Korea readies petrochemical overhaul as sector faces deep crisis
Oversupply from China and Middle East leaves Korean firms exposed, raising risks for banks, jobs and policymakers
August 18, 2025
South Korea signals rapprochement with Japan, but path ahead remains fraught
Lee Jae-myung’s Liberation Day speech signals shift, but sustained progress hinges on concrete diplomatic structure
August 15, 2025
South Korea’s $150 billion shipbuilding gamble faces choppy waters in Washington
Protectionist policies, political turnover and procurement culture may limit Seoul’s strategic and economic gains
August 14, 2025
High youth turnout fails to deliver real political power in South Korea
Structural obstacles, party hierarchies and economic precarity limit youth influence despite electoral participation
August 12, 2025
