Defense & Security
Oil shock fallout, reported Russia imports and KF-21 rollout — Ep. 125
Rising prices strain the economy as South Korea explores new supply options and navigates shifting alliances
March 27, 2026
South Korea’s KF-21 rollout tests defense exports under energy shock
Mass production milestone collides with supply constraints, raising questions over delivery and export execution
March 26, 2026
Philippines defense shift tests South Korea’s export model edge
Manila’s pivot to deterrence and alignment changes procurement criteria, challenging Korea’s cost-driven approach
March 24, 2026
South Korea’s slow response to Hormuz crisis exposes strategic constraints
Alliance pressures and sanctions risks limit South Korea’s ability to secure energy access amid rising prices
March 23, 2026
Iran war fallout on global alliances, energy deals and BTS comeback — Ep. 124
Policy reversals on Iran test alliances as South Korea confronts rising oil prices and domestic pressures
March 20, 2026
US interceptor shortages test reliability of THAAD coverage in South Korea
Rising missile demand and limited production capacity may constrain replenishment timelines for South Korea defenses
March 19, 2026
Trump rejects allied support in Hormuz as pressure shifts to Seoul
Europe refuses deployment, Japan weighs options and South Korea faces rising alliance and security constraints
March 18, 2026
Donald Trump’s call for Hormuz ships tests South Korea’s role in global security
Washington’s request highlights debate over whether Seoul will help protect sea lanes that underpin its economy
March 16, 2026
South Korea weighs Trump’s call for naval deployments to Strait of Hormuz
Seoul signals cautious review after US president urges affected nations to send ships to keep key oil route open
March 16, 2026
Energy shock, US missile defense asset shifts and new trade probes — Ep. 123
Seoul weighs price controls, potential US missile defense redeployments and Washington opens Section 301 investigations
March 13, 2026
