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January 03, 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’s 2025 budget creates winners and losers among key industries

High-tech, healthcare and defense sectors gain, while public housing, infrastructure and regional growth face cuts

John LeeJohn LeeAugust 29, 2024
Analysis

Yoon Suk-yeol’s upcoming pension reform speech promises major changes

Key reforms will likely include tiered contributions and a stabilization mechanism to ensure fund longevity

John LeeJohn LeeAugust 26, 2024
Analysis

Aging workforce threatens to dull South Korean conglomerates’ competitive edge

Chaebol increasingly lean on older workers instead of recruiting new talent, increasing costs and stifling innovation

John LeeJohn LeeAugust 20, 2024
Analysis

Lee Jae-myung’s re-election intensifies risks for businesses in South Korea

Opposition leader set to double down on stricter regulations, labor rights and opposing tax cuts as he challenges Yoon

John LeeJohn LeeAugust 19, 2024
Analysis

Electric vehicle fires expose risks for ROK of relying on Chinese batteries

Seoul is urging transparency as automakers navigate supply chain disruptions, political tensions and reputational damage

John LeeJohn LeeAugust 14, 2024
Analysis

Loan scandal at Woori Bank highlights systemic issues in ROK financial sector

Weak internal controls and concentrated power spark concerns over stability and regulatory effectiveness

John LeeJohn LeeAugust 12, 2024
Analysis

South Korea confronts underpriced stock market, but shirks chaebol reform

Seoul is relying on voluntary measures to tackle Korea Discount, even as weak corporate governance plagues investors

John LeeJohn LeeAugust 9, 2024
Analysis

How South Korea’s tax overhaul could exacerbate sky-high real estate prices

First major tax change in decades risks increasing housing inequality and economic volatility by cutting inheritance tax

John LeeJohn LeeAugust 7, 2024
Analysis

South Korea braces for economic turbulence following Japan’s interest rate hike

The Bank of Japan’s unexpected rate hike could trigger currency volatility and capital outflows from the ROK

John LeeJohn LeeAugust 1, 2024
Analysis

Liquidity crisis prompts $404 million in government aid for South Korean SMEs

Move addresses impact of unpaid sales proceeds from Wemakerprice and TMON but carries economic and regulatory risks

John LeeJohn LeeJuly 30, 2024
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