Inter-Korean & Foreign Relations
Trump’s Iran peace deal spares South Korea from hardest choices
Agreement to open Strait of Hormuz ends crisis before Seoul discovered if it could sustain its balancing act
June 15, 2026
Lee’s Italy trip reveals Seoul’s growing focus on Europe and economic security
From digital trade to AI and industrial policy, the visit showed why Europe matters more to Korea than before
June 15, 2026
Record Coupang penalty, local elections fallout and new PM nominee — Ep. 136
South Korea’s largest e-commerce company comes under renewed scrutiny while NEC grapples with mounting public distrust
June 12, 2026
South Korea delivers record penalty as Coupang case enters new phase
Appeals are expected, but regulators have now established a formal account of the breach and its aftermath
June 12, 2026
Europe’s new economic playbook gives South Korea a larger strategic role
The Brussels summit highlighted cooperation that reaches far beyond the original Korea-EU free trade deal
June 11, 2026
South Korea turns US investment pledge into long-term state policy
New rules create a 20-year framework for managing alliance-linked investments and strategic projects
June 10, 2026
South Korea adapts to a security landscape shaped by China and doubt about US
IISS Korea Chair Lami Kim discusses alliance shifts, nuclear submarines and Seoul’s defense strategy
June 8, 2026
New US trade action clouds outlook for South Korea tariff agreement
Forced-labor findings arrive alongside overcapacity probes and evolving Section 232 tariff measures
June 5, 2026
South Korea’s submarine push raises bigger questions about alliance roles
As Seoul expands military capabilities, Washington and Seoul are likely debating future security responsibilities
June 3, 2026
Deadly Hanwha Aerospace explosion puts spotlight on defense industry risks
Investigators will examine structural causes as Seoul pushes defense exports and advanced industrial growth
June 2, 2026
