Business & Economy
Fed cut, Trump tariff threat and Lee’s 123 tasks — Ep. 98
The Korea Pro team examines US rate cuts, tariff tensions, Mexico’s auto duties and the Lee’s sweeping policy agenda
September 19, 2025
US Fed cuts rates, opening policy window for South Korea’s central bank
First reduction since 2024 shrinks US-Korea rate gap to 1.75 pts, easing capital-flow pressure and imported-energy costs
September 19, 2025
South Korea faces rising labor costs as government pushes shorter workweek
Shorter workweek and overtime ban raise costs that could erode competitiveness unless hourly productivity surges
September 18, 2025
Mexico’s tariff plan threatens South Korea’s auto edge amid US trade strains
Seoul faces higher costs in Mexico as US tariffs persist, tightening squeeze on ROK automakers’ North American strategy
September 18, 2025
Ukraine envoy courts South Korean investment as Russia-DPRK ties deepen
In an exclusive interview, Ponomarenko calls for advanced air defense systems and rapid Korean investment in key sectors
September 17, 2025
South Korea unveils grand industrial and energy plan amid mounting fiscal strain
Cabinet approves seven national tasks with trillion-won ambitions, testing Seoul’s budgets and political resolve
September 17, 2025
South Korean automakers at risk of US losses as tariff gap widens with Japan
US duties on Korean cars puts Seoul at a competitive disadvantage in largest overseas market amid tense trade talks
September 16, 2025
South Korea sets profit-linked fines for firms with repeated workplace deaths
Companies with three or more annual fatalities face penalties up to 5% of operating profit and risk license cancellation
September 16, 2025
South Korea retreats on capital gains tax changes to calm markets and investors
Decision to keep 5 billion won threshold ends weeks of turmoil but raises doubts about long-term fiscal discipline
September 15, 2025
South Korea resists US tariff ultimatum as Supreme Court ruling looms
Seoul stalls trade talks, wary of Japan-style deal while awaiting US court decision on Trump’s “reciprocal” tariffs
September 15, 2025
