Defense & Security
Semiconductor surge, security shifts and Middle East risks — Ep. 127
Short-term gains for Korean chipmakers as energy shocks, defense reforms and Iran tensions raise uncertainty
Failing to score ‘decisive’ win in Iran, Trump turns to punish allies yet again
With conflict unresolved, Washington signals consequences for partners as energy and logistics remain constrained
South Korea-Japan evacuation diplomacy highlights ceiling on defense ties
Humanitarian coordination improves, but gaps in command, doctrine and strategy constrain deeper military integration
Chip profits rise as supply shocks squeeze South Korea’s broader economy
Samsung and LG post strong results, but rising costs and supply disruption point to mounting pressure across chip sector
South Korea-France supply chain deals deepen ties but sharpen rivalry
Agreements on nuclear energy, minerals and tech align supply chains even as EU policy risks limiting market access
South Korea’s KF-21 ambitions faces uncertainty amid financing and trust issues
Indonesia negotiations highlight growing reliance on state-backed financing and uneven partner commitment dynamics
Trump’s mixed signals, energy risks and South Korea’s security role — Ep. 126
Mixed signals from Washington as Seoul faces security demands, energy disruptions and domestic policy challenges
South Korea links energy, minerals and defense in Indonesia state visit push
MOUs on LNG and minerals align with KF-21 demand as Hormuz disruption forces coordinated supply and delivery strategy
Iran oil shock forces Seoul to weigh its energy needs against alignment with US
South Korea’s ties to the West have made it more politically difficult to coordinate with Tehran
South Korea in March 2026: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from March 1 to 27, 2026, and key outlook for April 2026














