Analysis
South Korea turns to Central Asia as Iran war tests its energy resilience
Lee Jae Myung seeks lasting oil supply ties as China, Russia and Middle East disruptions narrow Seoul’s options
September 14, 2026
Houthi seizure of Mokha sharpens South Korea’s Hormuz deployment dilemma
Red Sea risks strengthen Seoul’s case for action while exposing limits of a narrow military mission focused on Hormuz
September 11, 2026
Japan’s stronger yen may cut Korea’s import bill while raising funding costs
BOK sees more BOJ tightening ahead as Seoul weighs cheaper imports, volatile markets and pressure over US investment
September 10, 2026
South Korea leans on Europe as Hormuz deployment choices grow narrower
Lee is using a British-French framework to preserve a limited role as war, Iran and DP resistance constrain Seoul
September 9, 2026
Hanwha’s Austal bid shows where South Korea’s MASGA plan may be heading
US policy is steering Korean shipbuilders toward American yards, where access brings financial and technology risks
September 8, 2026
China’s Taiwan pressure may reveal more disciplined strategy toward South Korea
Beijing has made its red line clear but could stop short of THAAD-style retaliation to preserve improving bilateral ties
September 7, 2026
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
