Inter-Korean & Foreign Relations
How the new US forum for critical minerals shifts risk to allies like Seoul
FORGE raises expectations for partners to do more to strengthen supply chains, but leaves them open to the costs
February 5, 2026
US and South Korea affirm nuclear cooperation while tariff escalation proceeds
Seoul’s readouts stress implementation milestones as US trade action advances through administrative channels
February 5, 2026
US 2026 defense strategy shifts deterrence responsibility to South Korea
NDS treats Seoul’s military capability as settled, reallocating deterrence duties without new command authority
February 4, 2026
Norway’s Chunmoo deal signals shift in NATO frontline states’ deterrence logic
Oslo’s choice reflects how delivery timelines, munition supply and production geography now shape defense procurement
February 3, 2026
South Korea’s record January surplus rests on an extraordinary chip price surge
Semiconductor contract prices jumped between 300 and 700%, driving export gains that mask narrow exposure
February 3, 2026
US watches South Korea’s surpluses while steering clear of FX escalation
Washington maintained formal monitoring but used careful language to decouple won depreciation from intent
February 2, 2026
Tariff pressure from Trump, tech laws and alliance tensions — Ep. 117
How US tariff threats, digital platform legislation and domestic infighting are colliding in Seoul
January 30, 2026
South Korea in January 2026: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from Jan. 1 to 27, 2026, and key outlook for February 2026
January 30, 2026
Canada’s submarine project tests limits of South Korea’s defense export model
Ottawa’s bid underscores how long-term naval programs allow buyers to extract wide-ranging economic concessions
January 29, 2026
US tariff threat exposes widening gaps in Seoul’s trade and lawmaking signals
White House cites legislative delays as Seoul confirms undisclosed US letter on digital issues and trade uncertainty
January 29, 2026
