John Lee is the Managing Editor of Korea Pro, based in Seoul, where he leads daily executive briefings, in-depth analyses and high-level events for business leaders, diplomats and policy professionals. Since joining Korea Pro in 2022, he has expanded the platform’s coverage of South Korea’s economy, trade and foreign policy and moderates its flagship Korea Business Forum and Seoul Circuit series. Before taking the helm at Korea Pro, John contributed to NK News and Korea Pro as a writer focused on South Korean foreign policy and U.S.-ROK relations. His work blends on-the-ground reporting with data-driven analysis of South Korea’s political economy, economic security and its evolving role in global affairs.
An analytical look at the main developments from Jan. 1 to 27, 2026, and key outlook for February 2026
Seoul’s expectations for predictability are colliding with Washington’s erratic trade and defense policies
Powell dispute and tariff ambiguity raise the cost of volatility for highly open economies like South Korea
Export resilience and chip pricing underpin baseline, leaving growth exposed to tariff shocks and financial volatility
Restrictions designed for brick-and-mortar commerce now amplify structural decline and investment asymmetry
Limited agreements and careful rhetoric highlight an effort to contain friction without strategic concessions
Use of force without clear process raises uncertainty for countries that depend on alliance predictability
Former conservative lawmaker with deep fiscal credentials tapped to step into powerful role to reshape state spending
An analytical look at the main developments from Dec. 1 to 26, 2025, and key outlook for January 2026
Tax incentives and pension fund hedging shifts signal a pivot to financial protectionism ahead of 2026 local elections
Specialist news and analysis,
research tools, and unique data sets
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