Analysis
South Korea’s 2025 budget ignores trade and debt risks at its peril
With most funds deployed in early 2025, the government may lack flexibility to respond to worsening economic conditions
February 19, 2025
South Korea passes K-Chips Act but semiconductor policy still in limbo
New tax incentives provide relief, but labor and regulatory hurdles create long-term uncertainty for chipmakers
February 18, 2025
Lee Jae-myung’s recall plan may make South Korean politics even more chaotic
The opposition leader proposes expanding recall laws, but experts warn of partisan misuse and constitutional hurdles
February 17, 2025
How South Korea’s next president will likely respond to Trump’s tariffs
With US trade pressure rising, Seoul must decide whether to push back or make strategic concessions to Washington
February 14, 2025
Lee Jae-myung’s rise fuels US fears of a pro-China shift in South Korea’s policy
US conservatives remain wary of Lee’s past remarks on China, but experts urge a more nuanced view ahead of elections
February 13, 2025
South Korea’s opposition faces chaos if Lee Jae-myung is barred from running
Legal battles threaten Lee’s candidacy, leaving room for alternative DP candidates to emerge ahead of the next election
February 12, 2025
Trump’s tariffs hit South Korean steel hard as US trade war expands
With no quota relief, South Korea braces for economic fallout from the return of aggressive protectionism
February 11, 2025
Trump and Ishiba tighten US-Japan alliance as South Korea watches on warily
Japan secures stronger security and economic commitments while South Korea risks marginalization amid leadership turmoil
February 10, 2025
Lee Jae-myung’s China pivot could reshape South Korea’s trade and security
Facing US tariffs and China’s export controls, Lee must navigate economic pragmatism without jeopardizing alliance
February 7, 2025
Lee Jae-myung’s Marine Corps plan faces feasibility and political hurdles
Experts warn that his proposal for independent Marine branch may be costly and struggle to gain support within military
February 6, 2025
