Analysis
ROK 2023: What to expect for South Korea’s foreign relations in the year ahead
In first of a two-part series, Korea Pro analysts predict how Seoul’s ties will develop with the US, China and others
How the power dynamics of South Korean finance distort stock value forecasts
Most ROK analysts shun negative ratings, producing overly optimistic forecasts that can lead investors astray
Yoon’s tax cut plans for semiconductor industry set up clash with opposition
Seoul likely to frame proposal as necessary for national security, though it comes at time of economic uncertainty
Seoul’s cautious Indo-Pacific strategy maintains balance between US and China
Despite outward similarities with its U.S. ally, Seoul’s Indo-Pacific strategy stresses cooperation with Beijing
What an ex-president’s pardon means for the future of South Korea’s opposition
The release of both Lee Myung-bak and a former provincial governor has accentuated sharp divisions in a struggling party
Why South Korea’s currency had such a volatile year
Indicators suggest won is trending better, but the ROK economy remains at mercy of external factors beyond its control
Why Seoul’s military budget won’t budge even after North Korean drone debacle
President blames cuts to drone operations for security failures, but parties are in no mood for another budget fight
Why a South Korean defense contractor is betting on green shipping
Hanwha’s acquisition of Daewoo Shipbuilding promises new growth trajectories but faces financial and production hurdles
South Korean media diverge on whether Japan’s new security strategy poses threat
Seoul responded diplomatically to beefed-up defense plans, but anti-Japan sentiment looms over efforts to improve ties
How hate and prejudice make immigrants think twice about moving to South Korea
Seoul hopes to attract foreign workers to bolster the economy, but resistance to outsiders runs deep in Korean society