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May 18, 2025May 18, 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 contemplates defense role in Red Sea tensions

Potential coalition role puts Seoul’s diplomatic and military prowess under the spotlight

John LeeJohn LeeJanuary 18, 2024
Analysis

From EVs to rare earths: South Korea’s biggest economic successes of 2023

In part two, Korea Pro looks back at bright spots in Seoul’s efforts to bolster supply chains, boost exports and more

John LeeJohn LeeJanuary 1, 2024
Analysis

A year of robust foreign policy: South Korea’s biggest successes of 2023

Korea Pro has selected developments that showcased Seoul’s strengths and provide a foundation to build on in year ahead

John LeeJohn LeeDecember 29, 2023
Analysis

Twitch’s exit highlights costs of South Korea’s insular digital strategy

Streaming platform has blamed increased regulation on foreign firms, and its departure could have major economic impact

John LeeJohn LeeDecember 6, 2023
Analysis

South Korea’s overconfidence adds salt to the wound of failed World Expo bid

Busan suffered landslide defeat for 2030 expo, raising questions about ROK’s diplomatic prowess and strategic planning

John LeeJohn LeeNovember 29, 2023
Analysis

How suspending the inter-Korean military deal will shape South Korean policy

Decision could exacerbate domestic divisions over North Korea, while forcing further prioritization of defense spending

John LeeJohn LeeNovember 22, 2023
Analysis

South Korea stands at diplomatic crossroads as Yoon’s approval rating plummets

ROK president’s domestic challenges risk derailing his foreign policy initiatives, increasing uncertainty in near term

John LeeJohn LeeOctober 20, 2023
Analysis

Why halting KF-21 collaboration with Jakarta could cost Seoul more than money

Dispute with Indonesia risks South Korea’s finances, regional ties and aerospace industry credibility

John LeeJohn LeeOctober 17, 2023
Analysis

How US waivers for South Korea’s chips supply to China masks its tech quandary

Amid US-China tech tension, South Korea’s semiconductor waivers bring short-term relief but long-term strategic dilemmas

John LeeJohn LeeOctober 13, 2023
Analysis

What the Hamas attacks against Israel mean for South Korea

ROK backed US-Iran deal that saw transfer of billions in assets, possibly freeing up resources for coordinated assault

John LeeJohn LeeOctober 9, 2023
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