Analysis
Seoul builds framework for $150B US shipbuilding pledge, but funding gaps remain
South Korea is creating institutions for implementation, but many projects remain preliminary and funding details scarce
July 24, 2026
South Korea’s prosecution reform faces political reckoning over police failures
DP says stronger safeguards can replace prosecutors’ direct investigative role, but recent cases have intensified doubts
July 23, 2026
Why South Korea’s defense export success may not translate into drone dominance
Cheap military drones demand new supply chains, financing models and manufacturing economics unlike traditional weapons
July 22, 2026
South Korea’s drone buildup may outpace the networks needed to fight with it
The military is expanding procurement, but experts say integration, specialist units and defenses are lagging behind
July 21, 2026
UNESCO ensures Sado will remain a recurring South Korea-Japan dispute
The World Heritage Committee has embedded the issue in a review process that will shape Seoul-Tokyo diplomacy for years
July 20, 2026
South Korea’s naval exports face a tougher political test after Canada
Next generation of submarine contracts will reward suppliers that offer enduring security and industrial partnerships
July 17, 2026
South Korea bets on an investment state to power its post-chip economy
Lee’s growth strategy channels public capital into strategic industries, raising questions about governance and returns
July 16, 2026
South Korea’s military academy overhaul faces scrutiny as details remain elusive
The plan would transform officer training, but critics say the government has yet to justify its biggest defense reform
July 15, 2026
South Korea’s AI chip boom faces challenges beyond semiconductor demand
BOK sees AI demand extending the chip cycle, but markets are questioning the economics behind the companies driving it
July 13, 2026
How South Korea could capitalize on India’s changing defense priorities
India’s post-2025 military review has renewed interest in Korean air defense systems and broader industrial cooperation
July 10, 2026
