Briefings
South Korea’s main parties agree on eight key issues in rare talks
Controversial local party chapter system, abolished in 2004 due to funding scandals, may return
South Korea’s pension overhaul faces generational and political hurdles
Yoon’s plan to differentiate premium rates faces resistance from Democratic Party-controlled National Assembly
South Korea’s Nursing Act passage highlights rare bipartisan cooperation
Bipartisan success overshadowed by deep divisions among healthcare professionals and ongoing doctors’ strike
South Korea’s 2025 budget proposal faces political and economic challenges
Plan boosts R&D funding but reduces disaster management and public housing budgets, sparking political conflict
US-South Korea defense talks resume as election season heats up in Washington
South Korea seeks “reasonable” contribution level in talks, but Harris’ nomination may ease pressure on ROK negotiators
Hanwha Aerospace launches first overseas defense plant in Australia
New facility in Geelong set to produce howitzers and armored vehicles, boosting ROK-Australia defense ties
South Korea’s central bank holds rates steady for 13th consecutive time
Household debt at record $1.42 trillion drives Bank of Korea’s decision to hold rates ahead of U.S. Fed action
South Korea’s job numbers grew in first quarter but COVID-19 surge casts shadow
Health and welfare job growth reflects demographic trends, but surging virus could derail economic recovery
ROK-Shandong meeting signals Seoul’s intent to improve ties with China
South Korean trade negotiator and Shandong governor explore cooperation in supply chains, investment and new industries
South Korean banks hike mortgage rates amid surging household debt
Despite rate hikes, expectations of higher property prices will likely keep driving loan demand among borrowers