Inter-Korean & Foreign Relations
US midterm fallout, Korea’s $350B deal and Trump-Kim summit prospects — Ep. 156
Democratic gains raise questions over wartime command transfer, investment oversight and renewed North Korea diplomacy
November 6, 2026
South Korea adds future mine-clearance option to Cheonghae deployment plan
The government wants an expanded mandate south of Oman while pledging to keep its forces outside the war with Iran
November 6, 2026
Seoul’s $350B US investment pledge faces a second set of rules in Congress
Korean law demands commercial returns, but a Democratic bill would prioritize U.S. jobs, suppliers and new disclosures
November 5, 2026
Trump’s $350 billion South Korea deal faces a Democratic Congress test
Democrats gain oversight of investment decisions in January, while Seoul faces near-term pressure from the White House
November 5, 2026
Lee-Erdogan talks expose the difficult economics of South Korea’s nuclear push
A Sinop financing pact marks progress, but Westinghouse licensing costs and Czech construction disputes create risks
November 4, 2026
US, South Korea and Japan widen economic ties as nuclear plans advance
Foreign ministers sign a preliminary Arctic pact while reactor partners pursue overseas projects and financing
November 2, 2026
South Korea in October 2026: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from October 1 to 30, 2026, and key outlook for November 2026
October 30, 2026
Lee’s online backlash, US alliance tensions and political theatrics — Ep. 155
Lee Jae Myung faces backlash over immigration remarks as defense minister questions US military support
October 30, 2026
Lee and Merz deepen ties as EU market rules loom over Korean exporters
Seoul wants equal treatment for its manufacturers as European lawmakers revisit provisions in a major industrial bill
October 30, 2026
Border tensions, alliance strains dominate South Korea’s parliamentary audits
Lawmakers pressed officials on North Korean mines, US intelligence curbs, OPCON timelines and a rift with Ukraine
October 27, 2026
