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 anti-hoarding decree on petrochemicals keeps import costs low, while old habits delay Seoul’s diversification efforts
Seoul secures oil supply, but businesses must decide which costs to absorb, pass on or redesign as risks linger
Seoul locks in 273 million barrels and naphtha, but longer routes and logistics strain raise costs and delivery risks
President’s social media style blurs line between domestic politics and official policy, raising diplomatic costs abroad
Oil shock, weaker won and fiscal expansion leave incoming governor with limited room to manage inflation or growth
With conflict unresolved, Washington signals consequences for partners as energy and logistics remain constrained
Agreements on nuclear energy, minerals and tech align supply chains even as EU policy risks limiting market access
South Korea’s ties to the West have made it more politically difficult to coordinate with Tehran
An analytical look at the main developments from March 1 to 27, 2026, and key outlook for April 2026
Mass production milestone collides with supply constraints, raising questions over delivery and export execution
Specialist news and analysis,
research tools, and unique data sets
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