Inter-Korean & Foreign Relations
South Korea signals caution after China tightens dual use export rules on Japan
Officials stress indirect exposure and preparedness while avoiding moves that could disrupt Seoul’s diplomacy
January 9, 2026
After restraint, Lee Jae Myung probes how far he can shift to the left
Early rhetorical changes suggest the administration is reassessing constraints before any formal policy moves
January 8, 2026
Thailand’s use of Korean-made jets against Cambodia poses arms exports quandary
Seoul’s subdued response highlights uneven application of export rules depending on commercial and geopolitical exposure
January 7, 2026
Lee-Xi summit shows South Korea stabilizing China ties amid alignment pressure
Limited agreements and careful rhetoric highlight an effort to contain friction without strategic concessions
January 6, 2026
Lee-Xi summit seeks stability as South Korea moves to stabilize China ties
The state visit prioritized procedural dialogue and risk containment over resolving deeper strategic disputes
January 6, 2026
Venezuela strike narrows room for restraint and shifts risk onto US allies
Use of force without clear process raises uncertainty for countries that depend on alliance predictability
January 5, 2026
How South Korea enters 2026 across politics, security and trade — Ep. 113
Record trade figures, postponed war games and mounting domestic political strain come into sharper focus
January 2, 2026
South Korea’s credibility play in nuclear talks puts Rim Kap-soo at the center
Career nonproliferation expert is tasked with expanding fuel-cycle rights while reassuring the US on precedent and trust
January 2, 2026
The US-South Korea alliance avoided rupture but lost its old buffers in 2025
With North Korea receding, USFK ambiguity, investment pressure and routine policy choices now shape alliance credibility
January 1, 2026
South Korea in December 2025: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from Dec. 1 to 26, 2025, and key outlook for January 2026
December 29, 2025
