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April 25, 2025Apr 25, 2025

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

John Lee

John Lee

John Lee is the editor of KOREA PRO, based in Seoul. Prior to that, he was a contributor for NK News and KOREA PRO. His focus is on South Korean foreign policy and ROK-U.S. relations.

Analysis

South Korea-Japan-China summit faces uphill battle amid regional tensions

The three East Asian nations may aim to boost cooperation, but deep-rooted mistrust will likely hinder progress

John LeeJohn LeeApril 5, 2024
Analysis

Trump’s 2024 bid could reshape global defense industry, impact South Korea

South Korean defense firms could benefit from increased allied spending, but face competition and U.S. market risks

John LeeJohn LeeApril 3, 2024
Analysis

Why South Korea’s ruling party wants to relocate parliament outside Seoul

Moving National Assembly could promote regional development and win votes, but may also be unconstitutional

John LeeJohn LeeMarch 28, 2024
Analysis

How plans to upgrade US-Japan defense pact complicate Seoul’s strategic calculus

South Korea may double-down on trilateral cooperation to avoid being sidelined, but risks blowback from neighbors

John LeeJohn LeeMarch 26, 2024
Analysis

South Korea eyes joining G7, but faces hurdles amid democratic backsliding

Bid to join elite group will depend on ability to address domestic and global challenges, including risks for China ties

John LeeJohn LeeMarch 20, 2024
Analysis

Yoon’s controversial ambassador pick sparks political firestorm in South Korea

Appointment of ex-defense chief under investigation risks stoking public outrage and damaging ties with Australia

John LeeJohn LeeMarch 11, 2024
Analysis

Why a push to reform South Korean spy law risks a diplomatic fallout with China

Current ROK law only forbids espionage for North Korea, while focusing on punishments over measures to prevent leaks

John LeeJohn LeeMarch 4, 2024
Analysis

Why South Koreans pursue convenience store dreams in an oversaturated market

An unforgiving job market is driving self-employment, but new business owners quickly find the odds stacked against them

John LeeJohn LeeFebruary 27, 2024
Analysis

A tale of two polls: Reading between the lines of Yoon’s clashing approval rates

Realeter and Gallup Korea show stark differences in Yoon Suk-yeol’s popularity, but also support as he pushes for change

John LeeJohn LeeFebruary 26, 2024
Analysis

South Korea’s fighter jet project hits turbulence amid tech theft saga

Allegations of espionage by Indonesian engineers put a spotlight on security and trust in defense collaborations

John LeeJohn LeeFebruary 7, 2024
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