Defense & Security
Iran escalation, Seoul’s response and Google map’s breakthrough — Ep. 122
From shipping risk in the Strait of Hormuz to emergency market measures in Seoul, plus Google’s HD map export approval
South Korea weighs fuel price sanctions as Middle East crisis rattles markets
Lee Jae Myung orders review of anti-gouging penalties and market safeguards as war raises energy and volatility risks
Iran war exposes structural risks in South Korea’s global trade model
Conflict shows how maritime chokepoints can quickly destabilize energy imports, financial markets and policy planning
South Korea faces energy logistics shock from Iran escalation
Disruption in shipping and insurance markets limits Seoul’s room to manage inflation, FX stability and energy security
South Korea in February 2026: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from February 1 to 25, 2026, and key outlook for March 2026
South Korea on alert as Hormuz shipping disruption deepens
Seoul convenes emergency meetings as stalled Gulf energy flows raise inflation and policy risk concerns
South Korea’s review of NATO funding tests its Russia hedging strategy
Reviewing entry into a coordinated Ukraine procurement mechanism may reduce flexibility in managing Moscow relations
USFK drill near China exposes strains in Washington-Seoul alliance
Rare objections from South Korea spotlight consultation norms as US posture shifts toward China-focused deterrence
South Korea redefines senior military accountability after martial law
Expanded liability and civilian promotion authority reshape accountability and command authority
South Korea shifts focus from tariff pledges to delivery under US pressure
Seoul sends delegation to Washington as investment commitments face legal, political and commercial constraints














