Inter-Korean & Foreign Relations
China’s rare earth controls collide with US tariffs, stranding South Korea
Beijing’s export licenses and Washington’s reciprocal trade laws leave Korean firms exposed to two incompatible regimes
October 9, 2025
Europe joins Trump in steel tariff surge, raising new risks for South Korea
The EU’s quota cuts and 50% tariffs close another door for Korean mills as China floods Asian markets with cheap steel
October 9, 2025
South Korea’s arms export boom faces hard political limits in Europe
Political trust and Ukraine alignment now weigh more heavily than price or speed in Europe’s defense procurement drive
October 8, 2025
China’s stance and US volatility converge to raise South Korea’s security risks
Pacific Forum survey shows China’s positions unchanged while Washington’s inconsistency undermines alliance trust
October 7, 2025
Takaichi’s rise to power poses critical test for fragile South Korea-Japan ties
Conservative set to be Japan’s next leader risks clashing with Lee Jae-myung, as nationalism endangers cooperation
October 6, 2025
Japan’s Sanae Takaichi breaks glass ceiling but risks reopening old wounds
Her hard line views on history and defense may complicate Seoul’s rapprochement despite shared security priorities
October 6, 2025
US shutdown, Trump’s chip tariffs and Lee’s self-reliant defense — Ep. 100
The Korea Pro team unpacks Washington’s dysfunction, Seoul’s economic risks and Lee Jae-myung’s new military doctrine
October 3, 2025
Lee Jae-myung’s self-reliant defense plan undermined by dependence on US systems
Plan for military sovereignty relies on satellites, drones and networks that remain years from full capability
October 2, 2025
US shutdown threatens South Korea’s trade talks and joint drills with USFK
Tariff talks stall, USFK faces furloughs and lost jobs data clouds Bank of Korea’s outlook ahead of rate decision
October 2, 2025
South Korea in September 2025: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from September 1 to 30, 2025, and key outlook for October 2025
October 1, 2025
