Domestic Politics
Why the US and South Korea disagree about Seoul’s participation in the Quad
Both ROK progressives and conservatives misunderstand the dialogue’s purpose and India’s key role
January 16, 2023
How lack of diversity in government risks undermining Seoul’s global reputation
President Yoon has filled key posts with friends and former colleagues but almost no women, even as he promises change
January 13, 2023
How domestic politics and geopolitics influence South Korea’s nuclear calculus
Yoon Suk-yeol appeared to back a nuclear program if DPRK threat worsens, but ROK is far from making this a reality
January 12, 2023
ROK 2023: What to expect for South Korea’s economy and society in the year ahead
In second of a two-part series, Korea Pro analysts describe pros and cons of economic and political situation
January 6, 2023
Yoon’s tax cut plans for semiconductor industry set up clash with opposition
Seoul likely to frame proposal as necessary for national security, though it comes at time of economic uncertainty
January 3, 2023
What an ex-president’s pardon means for the future of South Korea’s opposition
The release of both Lee Myung-bak and a former provincial governor has accentuated sharp divisions in a struggling party
December 29, 2022
Why Seoul’s military budget won’t budge even after North Korean drone debacle
President blames cuts to drone operations for security failures, but parties are in no mood for another budget fight
December 27, 2022
South Korea sees shared values, economic partners on the African continent
ROK must chart its way carefully to work with African nations as an equal partner, not a domineering force
December 20, 2022
Planned textbook revision puts South Korea out of step on LGBTQ issues
Removing term ‘sexual minorities’ appears aimed at appealing to Yoon’s base but may contribute to homophobia in schools
December 14, 2022
Yoon sees approval rate bump after adopting harder-edged image
Banning press from presidential plane and response to truckers’ strike likely played to Yoon’s conservative base
December 12, 2022
