Business & Economy
South Korea’s inflation slows to target but central bank caution remains intact
Energy-driven disinflation masks steady services inflation and leaves policy exposed to oil and currency volatility
Norway’s Chunmoo deal signals shift in NATO frontline states’ deterrence logic
Oslo’s choice reflects how delivery timelines, munition supply and production geography now shape defense procurement
South Korea’s record January surplus rests on an extraordinary chip price surge
Semiconductor contract prices jumped between 300 and 700%, driving export gains that mask narrow exposure
Lee Jae Myung’s housing push tests presidential authority before local elections
President ties political credibility to enforcement as markets test whether housing policy will buckle under pressure
US watches South Korea’s surpluses while steering clear of FX escalation
Washington maintained formal monitoring but used careful language to decouple won depreciation from intent
Tariff pressure from Trump, tech laws and alliance tensions — Ep. 117
How US tariff threats, digital platform legislation and domestic infighting are colliding in Seoul
South Korea in January 2026: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from Jan. 1 to 27, 2026, and key outlook for February 2026
Fed pause near neutral shifts focus from rate cuts to credibility risks
Fed signals policy has reached a neutral range leaving markets to price volatility guidance and institutional trust
Canada’s submarine project tests limits of South Korea’s defense export model
Ottawa’s bid underscores how long-term naval programs allow buyers to extract wide-ranging economic concessions
US tariff threat exposes widening gaps in Seoul’s trade and lawmaking signals
White House cites legislative delays as Seoul confirms undisclosed US letter on digital issues and trade uncertainty














