Domestic Politics
Cho Kuk’s return after pardon tests South Korea’s progressive coalition unity
Public backlash, shifting polls and policy divergence raise risk of fragmentation before 2026 and 2028 elections
August 22, 2025
US equity push in Samsung raises sovereignty fears ahead of Trump-Lee summit
White House plan to convert CHIPS Act subsidies into stakes in chipmakers triggers alarm over industrial autonomy
August 22, 2025
Hidden clause in US nuclear deal puts South Korea’s industrial autonomy at risk
Reported clause granting 50-year oversight and royalties raises sovereignty concerns as KHNP competes for reactor bids
August 21, 2025
National Tax Service data highlights South Korea’s small-business strain
Food service, wholesale and real estate show persistent closures, highlighting weak demand despite overall stability
August 21, 2025
South Korea’s military reform risks weakening counterintelligence operations
Experts warn that dispersing counterintelligence functions could hinder readiness against DPRK, China and Russia
August 20, 2025
South Korea turns to Kang Kyung-wha to anchor US alliance in the Trump era
Veteran diplomat’s success hinges on rallying support from Congress, Pentagon and businesses before policy shocks land
August 19, 2025
Lee Jae-myung’s approval hits record low after pardons and tax backlash
Backlash erodes support at home, but high-profile talks with Japan and the US could give Lee a foreign policy boost
August 19, 2025
South Korea readies petrochemical overhaul as sector faces deep crisis
Oversupply from China and Middle East leaves Korean firms exposed, raising risks for banks, jobs and policymakers
August 18, 2025
UFS postponed, Brunson stresses capabilities, Lee unveils 123-task plan — Ep. 93
The Korea Pro team unpacks the Ulchi Freedom Shield delay, OPCON transfer and Lee’s sweeping five-year agenda
August 15, 2025
Presidential ally tapped to head Korea’s financial watchdog, raising concerns
Lee Chan-jin, a civic lawyer with no direct finance background, fuels debate about regulatory independence
August 15, 2025
