KOREA PRO Podcast

In this week's episode, the team unpacks the landmark court ruling that sentenced former President Yoon Suk Yeol to life in prison for his role in the Dec. 2024 martial law decree. They also examine the broader political implications, reactions from the ruling Democratic Party and the main opposition People Power Party and what risks may lie ahead for South Korea's conservative bloc. The conversation then shifts to trade with South Korea slipping from fourth to ninth place in U.S. import rankings in 2025, largely due to tariffs and weaker performance in sectors such as automobiles and steel, even as soaring semiconductor prices have buoyed overall trade figures.  Jeongmin also shares insights from the Munich Security Conference, where she attended as the only Korean participant. She reflects on South Korea's limited official presence, the growing importance of supply chain and security discussions among global stakeholders and the opportunities Seoul may be missing in high-level diplomatic and industry forums. Looking ahead, the team previews Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's upcoming visit to Seoul, potential areas of cooperation including trade and supply chains, as well as the People Power Party's reported plans to rebrand. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Managing Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

In this week's episode, NK News' Lead Correspondent Shreyas Reddy joins John Lee. They  discuss Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's Liberal Democratic Party's landslide victory, delivering a two-thirds parliamentary supermajority that could pave the way for long-sought constitutional revisions. They delve into how uncertainty surrounding U.S. foreign policy and alliance commitments is influencing both Seoul and Tokyo as they reassess defense self-sufficiency and trilateral cooperation. The episode also covers South Korea's expanding defense partnership with Saudi Arabia, where a new memorandum of understanding signals a shift from one-off arms sales to longer-term joint research and development. The pair discuss how deeper industrial cooperation aligns with Riyadh's localization goals under Vision 2030 and Seoul's ambition to solidify its position in the Middle East, while also considering potential friction with U.S. defense exporters. Shifting to domestic politics, the episode examines contentious judicial reform proposals in South Korea's National Assembly. Lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Party are advancing plans to expand the Supreme Court and adjust the relationship between the Supreme Court and Constitutional Court.  The episode concludes with a look at the week ahead, including legislative maneuvering before the Lunar New Year holiday, continued developments surrounding U.S. tariff discussions and the unfolding Coupang saga.  About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Managing Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

In this week's episode, the Korea Pro team unpacks the Washington meeting between ROK Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which they describe as productive on alliance priorities like civil nuclear cooperation, shipbuilding and broader strategic coordination. But they contrast that with far tougher parallel meetings on trade, where South Korean officials reportedly came away with no concrete outcomes and ongoing disagreement over how to implement bilateral commitments. The conversation then shifts to critical minerals and the launch of the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement, or FORGE, which replaces the earlier Mineral Security Partnership framework with a more operational model focused on financing, price stability and enforcement tools such as adjustable tariffs.  On U.S. economic policy, the hosts discuss Kevin Warsh's nomination to lead the Federal Reserve. They also break down South Korea's return to the U.S. foreign-exchange monitoring list, emphasizing that this was framed around Korea's large current-account and bilateral trade surpluses rather than currency manipulation.  The team also previews expected government follow-up measures ahead of the May 9 end of temporary tax relief for multi-home owners and flag major media-industry news: Washington Post layoffs and the closure of its Seoul hub. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Managing Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

In this week's episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha unpack a turbulent week dominated by renewed tariff tensions between the U.S. and South Korea. After President Donald Trump threatened to raise tariffs back to 25% over the South Korean National Assembly's failure to ratify a previously announced agreement, they discuss the fallout in Seoul, confusion within the Blue House and growing friction surrounding South Korea's proposed digital platform regulation.  The conversation then broadens to questions of sovereignty, legislative authority and political optics, as domestic partisan clashes intensify and the president criticizes parliamentary gridlock. They also delve into international criticism of South Korea's revised Network Act, often referred to as the “anti-fake news” law, and the implications for press freedom and investigative journalism Shifting gears, the episode covers South Korea's high-stakes bid for Canada's next-generation patrol submarines, a deal that could be worth more than $70 billion when lifecycle costs are included. The team explains why Seoul is mounting an all-out government-and-industry push, how Ottawa appears to be linking defense procurement with broader industrial cooperation, and what's at stake if the bid ultimately goes to Germany instead. The episode wraps up with updates from domestic politics, including developments involving special prosecutors, unpaid severance pay investigations and escalating turmoil within the main opposition People Power Party following the expulsion of former leader Han Dong-hoon.  About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Managing Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

At Korea Pro's first Seoul Circuit dinner of the year this month, Peck Cho joined Managing Editor John Lee for a wide-ranging conversation on South Korea's “happiness paradox” — why life satisfaction has stagnated despite rising wealth, safety and global influence. The discussion examined how purpose, independence and social trust have eroded amid job precarity, hyper-connectivity and changing family and community structures, and why these pressures are being felt most acutely by younger generations. In this episode, we share the moderated portion of the event. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Managing Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

In this week's episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha begin with South Korean prosecutors' request for the death sentence for former President Yoon Suk Yeol over his Dec. 2024 martial law decree. The hosts assess why, despite the severity of the charge, the likelihood of an actual death penalty ruling remains low and what the case signals about prosecutorial strategy, judicial precedent and political risk management ahead of a February verdict. The discussion then turns to President Lee Jae Myung's summit with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The team examines the substance of their agreement on North Korean denuclearization and supply-chain cooperation at a time of deteriorating Japan-China relations, as well as the unexpectedly warm personal dynamics between the two leaders — a sharp contrast to initial expectations. Attention next moves to the Bank of Korea's (BOK) decision to hold interest rates at 2.5% for a fifth consecutive meeting. John explains how won volatility and rising real estate prices in Seoul are constraining the central bank's policy flexibility, limiting its ability to ease without triggering further capital outflows or asset-price pressures. The episode also unpacks why BOK Governor Rhee Chang-yong signed an open letter backing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and the Fed's independence, and what that signal reveals about global concerns over political pressure on monetary authorities. The conversation concludes with a look ahead to the coming week, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's upcoming visit to South Korea — the first by an Italian leader in nearly two decades — and continued uncertainty surrounding the U.S. Supreme Court's pending ruling on the constitutionality of President Donald Trump's “reciprocal” tariffs, a decision with direct implications for South Korea and other U.S. trade partners. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Managing Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John and Joon Ha open with a breakdown of the Lee-Xi summit in Beijing. The hosts assess Lee's request for China to act as a mediator in stalled inter-Korean nuclear talks, the different narratives that have emerged about the summit and examine Seoul's claim that Beijing agreed to remove a controversial steel structure from the Yellow Sea. The conversation then turns to South Korea's domestic political response to the U.S. military operation in Venezuela that led to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro. John and Joon Ha explore how calls for de-escalation from Seoul, along with public condemnation from some Democratic Party lawmakers and Rebuilding Korea Party leader Cho Kuk, reflect unease over opaque U.S. executive action taken without congressional approval or allied consultation. The episode also revisits Joon Ha's recent analysis on Thailand's use of a South Korean trainer jet to strike targets in Cambodia. The hosts compare Seoul's restrained response with past cases involving the Philippines, Saudi Arabia and Ukraine, and discuss the diplomatic, legal and reputational risks for South Korea. The discussion concludes with a look ahead to the coming week, including Lee's expected meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, signals sent by Lee's historical messaging while in China and key domestic political developments such as the Democratic Party's upcoming floor leader election and a likely National Assembly plenary session. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Managing Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Friday, Jan. 8, 2026. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha examine how leadership changes, security signaling and headline economic data are reshaping South Korea's policy narrative at the start of 2026. The episode opens with an internal milestone at Korea Pro, as Jeongmin announces John's promotion to managing editor. John invites listeners to submit new pitch ideas as Korea Pro broadens its analytical coverage. The discussion then turns to President Lee Jae Myung's New Year address. Joon Ha unpacks the national security dimensions of the speech, while John focuses on Lee's emphasis on industrial accidents, workplace safety and the political implications of framing economic growth through risk prevention. From there, the hosts assess developments in alliance management, revisiting last year's postponement of parts of the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises and the decision by Washington and Seoul to complete the full slate of drills before the end of 2025. The conversation shifts to trade data, where South Korea's record $709 billion export figure for 2025 is put under scrutiny. John challenges the government narrative by highlighting the gap between export value growth and weak export volume expansion. The episode also examines the political fallout from President Lee's appointment of Lee Hye-hoon as the inaugural minister of the new Ministry of Planning and Budget, tracing her cross-camp political history and explaining why her nomination has drawn criticism from both the ruling Democratic Party and the main opposition People Power Party. The episode concludes with a rapid-fire domestic political update, including the Democratic Party exit of Kang Sun-woo amid bribery allegations, the resignation of former floor leader Kim Byung-kee over abuse-of-power claims, and a look ahead to President Lee's upcoming visit to Beijing for talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Managing Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this year-end episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha reflect on how political volatility, external trade pressure and strategic industrial cooperation shaped South Korea's risk environment in 2025. They begin with the Jan. 18 storming of a Seoul court by pro-Yoon protesters, discussing why the episode marked a rare breach of assumptions around judicial security and highlighted growing stress on democratic institutions. The conversation then turns to South Korea's succession of acting presidents, examining how prolonged caretaker leadership has diluted authority, slowed decision-making and complicated policy coordination. The hosts also assess the expanding use of tariffs as political tools rather than economic instruments and U.S.-ROK shipbuilding cooperation. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha examine how economic security, domestic politics and supply-chain strategy are increasingly colliding for South Korea. They begin with the special counsel investigation into former President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law preparations, discussing why prosecutors concluded the episode was the result of prolonged institutional erosion rather than an isolated abuse of power. The conversation then turns to economic security. The hosts assess the launch of the U.S.-led Pax Silica initiative and Korea Zinc's $7.5 billion U.S. smelter project, focusing on how allied coordination is shifting geopolitical compliance costs onto private firms. They also discuss South Korea's record ICT exports and third-quarter corporate data, unpacking how surging semiconductor shipments to China and rising chaebol profitability are masking deepening stress among small and medium-sized enterprises. The episode concludes with a look ahead to an upcoming ban on the free provision of disposable plastic cups at various business establishments, including cafes, under a comprehensive “de-plastics” policy. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John and Joon Ha begin by discussing South Korea's deepening domestic downturn, beginning with South Korea's job-to-applicant ratio collapsing to the lowest level since the 1998 Asian Financial Crisis. They assess how the labor freeze intersects with the chaebol capital strike, as nearly 60% of major firms halt 2026 investment plans amid tax, labor and decarbonization pressures. They then discuss Mexico's 35% tariff wall targeting Asian supply chains — a move that directly threatens the logistics model used by Korean automotive and electronics firms for decades. They then discuss the Federal Reserve's quarter-point rate cut, evaluating what impact it may have on South Korea. Turning to defense and security, the hosts review Peru's agreement to purchase 54 K2 tanks and 141 K808 armored vehicles, a deal marking South Korea's largest ground-systems export to Latin America. They also discuss the fallout from the Unification Church scandal, culminating in the resignation of the oceans minister. The episode closes with a look ahead to next week's developments: Laotian President Thongloun Sisoulith's visit to Seoul for a summit focused on economic and security cooperation, and National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac's trip to Washington for high-stakes consultations on nuclear-powered submarines, enrichment capabilities and South Korea's defense spending commitments under the new U.S.-ROK strategic framework. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John and Joon Ha reflect on South Korea's political and social landscape one year after the failed martial law declaration, tracking how public anger, institutional distrust and competing protest movements continue to shape the country's trajectory. The hosts recount Korea Pro's on-the-ground reporting at both anti-Yoon and pro-Yoon demonstrations, exploring how diverging narratives around legitimacy, accountability and national security continue to harden. They analyze President Lee Jae Myung's latest National Assembly address and the People Power Party's internal disarray, assessing what Lee's agenda signals for governance, fiscal priorities and his relationship with a weakened conservative opposition. The episode breaks down the passage of the 2026 budget — the first on-time budget since 2020 — highlighting the debut of the National Growth Fund, shifts in defense spending and the political calculus behind a deal struck under extreme polarization. John and Joon Ha then examine Coupang's spiraling data disaster, parsing what is known, what remains unclear and how the incident exposes systemic cyber vulnerabilities that now sit squarely within South Korea's regulatory, political and corporate crosshairs. The episode concludes with a look ahead to the Dec. 14 deadline for the the Special Counsel investigating the martial law incident About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John and Joon Ha assess South Korea's strategic leap in space technology after the successful early-morning launch of the Nuri rocket, exploring the implications for sovereign satellite capability, dual-use defense competitiveness and regional positioning against Japan's H3 program. The hosts analyze Poland's decision to choose Sweden's Saab over Hanwha Ocean for the Orka submarine project, examining what the loss signals for South Korea's ambitions to move up the defense-export value chain from land systems to complex naval platforms. They break down the Bank of Korea's decision to hold the base rate at 2.5% while upgrading the growth outlook, focusing on currency volatility, household-sector fragility and constrained policy space as markets price geopolitical risk into 2026. The episode also reviews President Lee Jae-myung's performance in Turkey, separating symbolic diplomacy from measurable outcomes and assessing whether outreach to Ankara reflects a broader multipolar strategy. The episode concludes with a look ahead to next week's protest marking one year since former President Yoon Suk-yeol's failed martial law declaration, where Korea Pro's Joon Ha Park and Lina Park will report from the National Assembly. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John and Joon Ha unpack the sweeping implications of the U.S.-ROK joint fact sheet released after the Security Consultative Meeting — including Seoul's $33 billion commitment to support U.S. Forces Korea, $25 billion in U.S. weapons purchases and the formalization of approval for South Korean nuclear-powered attack submarines. The hosts analyze Washington's evolving hierarchy of access for advanced AI chips after the U.S. approved Nvidia Blackwell exports to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, raising long-term competitive and compliance pressures for South Korea despite short-term stability. They then examine the annulment of the Lone Star arbitration ruling, exploring why South Korea's celebrated legal win does not resolve deeper risks tied to regulatory uncertainty and future investor-state disputes. The episode concludes with a look ahead to President Lee Jae-myung's trip to the G20 in Johannesburg and Turkey, as well as next week's Nuriho 4 launch at Goheung. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin and Joon Ha examine Seoul's defense industry push with Ottawa, as Hanwha Ocean and Hyundai Heavy Industries signed deals with Canadian firms related to next-generation submarine project, amid Seoul's ongoing pursuit to become the world's fourth-largest defense exporter by 2030. The hosts then analyze President Lee Jae-myung's directive to abolish criminal prosecution for fact-based defamation, a 1953 law criticized by U.N. and other human rights agencies — while unpacking the Democratic Party's controversial “Fake News Eradication Act” that critics warn could create new chilling effects on speech. Later, the team breaks down Seoul's new 2035 carbon emissions target of 53-61% reduction from 2018 baselines, which sparked immediate pushback from major business associations citing competitiveness risks. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson  

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin and Joon Ha unpack the political and market fallout from Donald Trump's remarks on restricting Nvidia's most-advanced chips for U.S. use, and what it means for Seoul's 260,000-GPU Blackwell deal with Hyundai, Samsung, SK and Naver — including implications for autonomous driving and the KOSPI's sharp response. The hosts then turn to South Korea's nuclear-powered submarine ambitions, after Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back publicly pushed for domestic construction over a U.S. shipyard, highlighting technical, industrial and political friction points.  Later, the team breaks down Seoul's successful launch of its fourth and fifth military reconnaissance satellite, completing Project 425 and advancing independent reconnaissance for kill-chain readiness, while unpacking remaining gaps for the goal of transferring wartime operational control discussed from this week's top U.S.-ROK military meetings.  Looking ahead, Jeongmin and Joon Ha preview budget season turbulence, presidential office audits, ongoing trials against the previous administration stakeholders regarding the Dec. 2024 martial law and the Bank of Korea's expected rate-cut decision. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson.

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin and Joon Ha return to Seoul after covering APEC in Gyeongju, where President Lee Jae-myung and Donald Trump finalized a U.S.-ROK tariff deal following months-long negotiations. The team explains new details on the $350 billion investment package, tariff reductions and how the agreement was received at home. They then unpack Lee's request for U.S. approval of nuclear-powered submarines — Seoul's proposal to Trump during the summit. The hosts also examine expert views on related challenges and defense implications, as well as reactions from China's foreign ministry and the South Korean public. Next, they discuss Lee's summits with Xi Jinping and Japan's Sanae Takaichi, and detail Nvidia's pledge to supply over 260,000 of its advanced AI chips to the ROK government and conglomerates after CEO Jensen Huang's meetings with Samsung and Hyundai leaders. The episode closes with an explanation of Pete Hegseth's visit to Seoul and Lee's upcoming budget address at the National Assembly. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha break down how South Korea is tightening monetary and strategic discipline ahead of next week's high-stakes APEC meetings. They begin with the Bank of Korea's decision to keep interest rates at 2.5% — a move to anchor the won and curb housing risks while signaling fiscal restraint before President Donald Trump's visit and final trade talks with Washington. Next, they turn to Seoul's expanding defense diplomacy at ADEX 2025, including Estonia's move toward the K239 Chunmoo and Poland's submarine project, and the launch of the KSS-III Batch-II submarine that underscores Seoul's maturing deterrence posture. The team then examines Foreign Minister Cho Hyun's push to revise the U.S.-ROK 123 Agreement, granting Seoul more flexibility in nuclear-fuel processing and deepening its quest for energy sovereignty. Finally, they preview the APEC week in Gyeongju — from Trump's one-night stop and Xi Jinping's industrial diplomacy to the APEC CEO Summit where Nvidia's Jensen Huang joins Korea's chaebol leaders — as Seoul braces for a defining moment in global diplomacy. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025. Audio edited by Lina Park

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha examine how South Korea is being pulled deeper into the U.S.-China confrontation just as it prepares to host both Donald Trump and Xi Jinping at the Gyeongju APEC summit. They begin with Beijing's unprecedented sanctions on five U.S.-linked Hanwha Ocean affiliates — a signal that China's Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law is now targeting South Korean firms for cooperating with Washington. Next, they turn to Seoul's crisis diplomacy in Cambodia and Samsung Electronics' record-breaking third-quarter profit, discussing how the company's AI-driven recovery exposes the limits of South Korea's industrial autonomy under U.S. export rules and Chinese controls. Finally, the team looks ahead to next week's key events — the Seoul ADEX defense expo, parliamentary audits of the military, judiciary and environmental agencies, and the anticipated state visits by Trump and Xi that could redefine Seoul's room for maneuver in a divided world. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha examine how global policy shifts are closing South Korea's room for neutrality. They begin with China's Orders 61 and 62, sweeping export-control measures that extend Beijing's authority to overseas manufacturers and leave South Korean firms trapped between competing U.S. and Chinese trade laws. Next, they turn to Japan, where Sanae Takaichi's victory in the Liberal Democratic Party leadership race sets the stage for her likely confirmation as prime minister on Oct. 15, testing the stability of Seoul-Tokyo relations just as cooperation had solidified. Finally, the team analyzes Europe's proposed steel quota cuts and 50% tariffs, which mirror Washington's protectionism and squeeze Korean mills out of major Western markets amid China's export glut. They close by previewing next week's developments — Japan's prime ministerial election and the resumption of South Korea's parliamentary audits following the Chuseok holidays. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha dissect a week dominated by U.S. volatility and South Korea's response. They start with Washington's first government shutdown since 2019, examining its implications for trade negotiations, U.S. Forces Korea operations and the Bank of Korea's policy outlook. The team then unpacks the Trump administration's proposed semiconductor-content tariffs, a measure that could upend Seoul's $350 billion investment-for-tariff deal and strike at the heart of South Korea's export economy. They also discuss the U.S. decision to clear Seoul of currency manipulation, and why it offers only fleeting relief. Turning to domestic policy, the hosts analyze President Lee Jae-myung's new “self-reliant defense” doctrine and the ruling party's abolition of the breach of trust crime, a landmark shift in corporate law. They close with the government data hub fire that has paralyzed ministries weeks before the APEC summit, exposing vulnerabilities in South Korea's digital infrastructure. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha break down a consequential week for South Korea's diplomacy and markets. They start with President Lee Jae-myung's high-profile trip to the United Nations, where he unveiled his END (Exchange, Normalization, Denuclearization) peace plan, presided over a Security Council debate on AI and held talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Polish President Karol Nawrocki and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The team then examines Foreign Minister Cho Hyun's trilateral meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi, and Lee's own sharp remarks about “submissive attitudes” toward the U.S. alliance. Finally, they turn to the domestic economy: the IMF's downbeat growth forecast and the government's proposed crackdown on opaque share buybacks, which signal a broader effort to tighten corporate governance and reassure foreign investors. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha unpack a fast-moving week for South Korea's economy and diplomacy. They begin with the U.S. Federal Reserve's quarter-point rate cut — the first since Dec. 2024 — and analyze how the move could influence the Bank of Korea's next steps, capital flows and the won. The team then dissects the Trump administration's warning that South Korea will face higher tariffs unless it accepts the same trade terms as Japan, noting Seoul officials' unusually blunt remarks that the U.S. is no longer the free-trade partner it once was. They also explore Mexico's plan to impose 50% tariffs on vehicles from countries without a free-trade agreement, a policy that could squeeze South Korean automakers and limit Seoul's trade flexibility. Next, Jeongmin and Joon Ha turn to President Lee Jae-myung's newly announced 123 key policy tasks, outlining the administration's broad domestic and economic agenda. In particular, they look at Seoul's security and foreign policy agenda, including the administration's ambition to complete OPCON transfer and reorganize the Marine Corps into a fourth quasi branch of the ROK Armed Forces.They discuss how these priorities are likely to shape both near-term governance and South Korea's longer-term growth strategy. Finally, the hosts look ahead to upcoming developments on Lee's expected keynote address at the United Nations on Sept. 23and other key events shaping the weeks ahead. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha examine a turbulent stretch for U.S.-ROK relations and President Lee Jae-myung 100-day-old administration. They start with the dramatic ICE raid on Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution's battery-plant project in Georgia, where more than 300 South Korean engineers were detained before a chartered flight carried them home. The team traces the raid's origins, the swift diplomatic response from Seoul and the broader questions it raises about U.S. visa policy and the investment climate for Korean firms. Next, they break down Lee Jae-myung's 100-day press conference, highlighting his criticism of the U.S. raid, his call for national unity and his policy priorities on economic recovery and renewable energy. The hosts assess how Lee's direct style and focus on communication are shaping perceptions at home and abroad. Finally, they look ahead to Freedom Edge trilateral military drills between the U.S., South Korea and Japan, and to the intensifying race within Japan's Liberal Democratic Party to replace Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John and Lina examine a turbulent week for South Korea's trade, defense and domestic agenda. They discuss how a U.S. appeals court ruling against Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffs threatens to upend Washington's negotiations with trade partners, including Seoul. They also weigh South Korea's official decision to join the CPTPP, considering the domestic backlash it faces from farmers and the politically sensitive issue of lifting Japanese seafood restrictions. The hosts then turn to defense and foreign policy, noting President Lee Jae-myung's absence from China's military parade while National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik shook hands with Kim Jong Un, and previewing Lee's upcoming UNGA speech that will highlight AI and global security rather than North Korea. Finally, they look ahead to Lee's first 100-day press conference under the banner of “recovery and growth for the future.” About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha break down the first summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung. They analyze how a last-minute social media post from Trump nearly derailed the talks, why Lee relied on flattery to keep the meeting cordial and how the U.S. president's land-ownership remark highlighted the volatility now embedded in the alliance. The hosts also examine South Korea's record $150 billion in new investment pledges, including landmark deals in aviation, energy, shipbuilding and critical minerals. They discuss how these commitments secure tariff relief but deepen Seoul's exposure to Trump's transactional trade framework. Finally, they consider how partisan disinformation networks in both countries are shaping alliance management, and what the summit reveals about the risks of diplomacy under an unpredictable U.S. president. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John and Joon Ha dissect revelations about the hidden clause in Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power (KHNP) and Korea Electric Power Corporation's (KEPCO) settlement with Westinghouse Electric, which critics argue binds South Korea's nuclear exports under U.S. control for the next half-century. They examine the political fallout in Seoul and why President Lee Jae-myung is unlikely to raise the matter in his upcoming talks with U.S. President Donald Trump. The hosts also preview Lee's Aug. 23 summit with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, noting the rare symmetry between their recent Aug. 15 speeches, which balanced historical acknowledgment with forward-looking cooperation. Finally, they turn to Lee's Aug. 25 summit with Trump, weighing the risks of an unpredictable U.S. president revisiting tariffs and trade concessions, and recap the week ahead, including the People Power Party leadership race and the Seoul Circuit event on ROK-Japan relations. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha examine the decision to postpone key Ulchi Freedom Shield drills to September due to South Korea's summer heatwave. They also discuss USFK commander General Xavier Brunson's recent remarks on the potential for a rushed transfer of operational wartime control (OPCON) and Seoul's ambitious plan to achieve that transition within President Lee Jae-myung's term.  The hosts also break down Lee's newly announced five-year blueprint, outlining 123 national policy tasks built around constitutional reform, balanced economic growth and strengthened diplomatic security. They look at the political and economic stakes of the plan, as well as the nomination of Lee Chan-jin to head the Financial Supervisory Service. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin and John dive into President Lee Jae-myung's escalating confrontation with major firms after a series of deadly workplace accidents, with POSCO and SPC under fresh scrutiny. They examine what the government's shift toward aggressive administrative penalties means for business. The hosts also break down why inflation remains volatile despite a steady consumer price index and why South Korea's export outlook is darkening amid U.S. tariffs. They then turn to the upcoming Ulchi Freedom Shield drills — including the decision to postpone half of the planned field exercises — and preview next week's ROK-Vietnam summit and President Lee's Aug. 15 Liberation Day address. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin and John unpack the Lee administration's $350 billion pledge to the U.S. — a last-minute concession that averted a sweeping 25% tariff on South Korean exports to the U.S. The hosts examine how the agreement, announced just before the Aug. 1 deadline, includes $100 billion in U.S. energy purchases and $150 billion for shipbuilding cooperation, but remains largely informal and unenforceable. Jeongmin and John also explore structural risks to South Korea's energy and shipbuilding pledges, including limited U.S. capacity, Jones Act restrictions and permitting delays. They compare the deal to Japan and the EU's earlier arrangements, which involved similar headline figures. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, July 31, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

At Korea Pro's July Seoul Circuit dinner, leading China scholar John Delury joined Jeongmin Kim, Executive Director of Korea Risk Group, for a timely conversation on China's strategic outlook under South Korea's new president, Lee Jae-myung. The discussion explored Beijing's past playbook for dealing with Seoul, how U.S. and European allies view South Korea amid shifting global alignments, and how a second Trump administration could reshape the region's security dynamics. In this episode, we share the moderated portion of the event. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John Lee and Joon Ha unpack a week of sharp developments in South Korea's domestic and foreign policy landscape. They begin with the last-minute postponement of the U.S.-ROK 2+2 economic and security dialogue. With the Aug. 1 deadline for trade negotiations looming, the hosts assess whether the delay signals tactical pressure from Washington as Seoul resists opening its rice and beef markets — and what alternatives, like LNG imports or defense purchases, may be on the table. Next, they turn to the collapse of two cabinet nominations. Gender minister nominee Kang Sun-woo withdrew after backlash over her remarks on sexual consent and staff treatment, while education minister nominee Lee Jin-sook was dropped due to plagiarism accusations. The hosts explore what these withdrawals mean for the administration's reform agenda and internal vetting process. Also featured is Korea Pro's latest investigation into the Korea Foundation. John introduces Chad O'Carroll's expose on how the government-linked nonprofit directed $9.4 million to U.S. think tanks without registering under U.S. foreign agent laws. Joon Ha also promotes his own new analysis on President Lee Jae-myung's plan to centralize oversight of defense exports, aimed at improving coordination and boosting South Korea's competitiveness in key arms contracts. Key developments to watch in the week ahead include the expected rescheduling of the postponed 2+2 tariff talks, with both sides aiming to meet before the Aug. 1 deadline. Sunday marks the anniversary of the Korean War Armistice, likely to bring official statements and memorial events. Meanwhile, confirmation reports for the unification, veterans, and defense ministers are still pending at the National Assembly, though the president is expected to act swiftly once they are adopted. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, July 24, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin Kim and Joon Ha delve into major political developments in South Korea, starting with defense minister nominee Ahn Gyu-baek's comments on completing the transfer of wartime operational control from the U.S. within five years. The remarks drew swift denial from the presidential office. The hosts then turn to the turbulent cabinet confirmation hearings. Unification minister nominee Chung Dong-yang was criticized for avoiding the term “main enemy” in reference to North Korea, while the gender minister nominee faced scrutiny over past staff treatment and a cautious approach to anti-discrimination and sexual consent laws. The education minister nominee was also questioned over plagiarism allegations related to student work. On the diplomatic front, the podcast explores the administration's announcement of special envoys to 14 countries, including a former Doosan chief named as the U.S. envoy after a previous pick raised concerns. The episode also looks ahead to key trilateral meetings, pending confirmations, Samsung Chairman Lee Jae-yong's legal developments and the upcoming rollout of supplementary cash vouchers. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, July 17, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

This week, the Korea Pro team unpacks how South Korea is navigating a convergence of economic strain, corporate turbulence and diplomatic urgency. The episode begins with the Bank of Korea's decision to hold its base interest rate at 2.5%, even as Seoul's housing market accelerates and household debt surges. The team then dives into U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of a 25% tariff on all South Korean imports beginning Aug. 1. A minor opposition lawmaker also alleged that the Yoon Suk-yeol administration illegally transferred military equipment to Ukraine under a lease agreement, sidestepping legal oversight. If substantiated, the case could constrain President Lee Jae-myung's ability to expand non-lethal aid or strengthen NATO ties. Next, the team turns to Samsung Electronics' steep Q2 earnings drop. With operating profit down, the team discusses what this means for South Korea's tech leadership and macroeconomic stability. The team covers plans for a three-way meeting among U.S., South Korean and Japanese senior diplomats on the sidelines of the upcoming ASEAN Regional Forum in Malaysia. If finalized, this would mark the first high-level trilateral meeting since Lee took office. Concurrently, ROK national security adviser Wi Sung-lac has proposed a “comprehensive package deal” that links tariffs, investment and security in one negotiation framework. Wi also suggested an early summit between Lee and Trump — a move aimed at de-escalating tensions and reinforcing South Korea's role as a strategic partner. In the week ahead, the team looks to the next round of confirmation hearings for Lee's Cabinet nominees and South Korea's upcoming Constitution Day, as the new administration continues to shape its policy direction amid rising domestic and international challenges. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Wednesday, July 10, 2025.  Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode, the Korea Pro team breaks down Beijing's formal invitation for President Lee Jae-myung to attend China's Sept. 3 Victory Day military parade — a move that echoes Park Geun-hye's 2015 attendance but lands in a far more polarized geopolitical climate. The team discusses how Lee is likely to approach the decision and what's at stake for Seoul's positioning between Washington and Beijing. The team also reflects on Lee's first presidential press conference — from its tone and theatrical “lucky draw” format to the substance of his responses on foreign policy, corporate reform and the anti-discrimination law. The episode then shifts to South Korea's record-breaking arms deal with Poland. The July 2 agreement will send 180 K2 Black Panther tanks abroad in a deal reportedly worth over $6 billion — nearly double the 2022 package. Unlike the first shipment, this deal includes extensive tech transfer and local assembly, cementing South Korea's role in Poland's rearmament push. Looking ahead, the trio preview next week's trilateral defense chiefs' meeting in Seoul, ongoing trade talks in Washington and deepening special probes targeting former President Yoon Suk-yeol's inner circle, including a travel ban on the former first lady. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Wednesday, July 3, 2025.  Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode, the Korea Pro team explores President Lee Jae-myung's decision to skip the NATO summit in the Hague, citing domestic concerns and the escalating Israel-Iran conflict. His absence prompted Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to also bow out, signaling an unusual moment of deference from Tokyo and a potential opportunity to formalize improving bilateral ties. The team also reviews Lee's growing Cabinet, with key appointments to the foreign affairs, unification and defense portfolios now in place — though eight major ministries, including finance and justice, remain without confirmed leadership. Finally, the team examines the KOSPI's rise above 3,100 and explains why it doesn't reflect the broader state of South Korea's economy. Looking ahead, the team discusses mounting legal trouble for former President Yoon Suk-yeol, as a special counsel seeks to bar him from travel and pursue a detention warrant over his aborted martial law plan. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.  Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this special episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin and John speak with Darcie Draudt-Vejares of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace about President Lee Jae-myung's shift to the center and what it means for alliance management under the Trump administration. The discussion covers growing resentment in Seoul over U.S. trade demands, the perception that Washington prioritizes deals over diplomacy and the likelihood that South Korea will face pressure to cut Chinese components from its supply chains. Draudt-Vejares also reflects on how Washington may interpret Seoul's efforts to diversify its strategic partnerships. Guest: Darcie Draudt-Vejares is a Fellow for Korea Studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Friday, June 20, 2025.  Audio edited by Gaby Magnuso

In this week's episode, the Korea Pro team reviews President Lee Jae-myung's appearance at the G7 summit, including his meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Notably absent was a sit-down with U.S. President Donald Trump, who left early amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. The war's impact on global energy prices is already being felt in South Korea, raising concerns about inflation just as Lee faces mounting pressure to revive a slowing economy. The team also examines the U.S. Federal Reserve's rate freeze and what it means for the Bank of Korea's already limited policy space. The trio also discusses the parliamentary hearing for National Intelligence Service nominee Lee Jong-seok, where his past comments on North Korea drew scrutiny. Looking ahead, the team previews next week's NATO summit in The Hague, the parliamentary hearing for Prime Minister nominee Kim Min-seok and South Korea's upcoming commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Korean War. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, June 19, 2025.  Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode, the Korea Pro team reviews President Lee Jae-myung's initial week of diplomacy, including his delayed release of the Trump call readout and subsequent phone calls with leaders from Japan, China, the Czech Republic and Vietnam. The team also unpacks Lee's nominations for vice minister-level roles across foreign affairs, trade, industry and finance — key technocrats expected to represent South Korea at the upcoming G7 summit. On the domestic front, Jeongmin and John examine the Seoul High Court's decision to suspend Lee's ongoing trials, public debate over the citizen recommendation system and Lee's pledge to crack down on unfair stock market practices. The episode wraps with a preview of the G7 summit, where attention will focus on a possible U.S.-ROK presidential meeting. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, June 12, 2025.  Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode, Jeongmin and Joon Ha share what they saw at rival campaign camps on election night, while the team discusses newly-elected President Lee Jae-myung's first appointments and Kim Min-seok's focus on economic revival as prime minister-designate. They also examine how the main opposition People Power Party is handling defeat, including floor leader Kweon Seong-dong's resignation and former candidate Kim Moon-soo's finger-pointing over internal party sabotage. The team closes with a look ahead to the ruling Democratic Party's upcoming leadership transition and the judiciary committee's role in Lee's pending election law case. With presidential immunity facing legal ambiguity, Korea watchers will need to track how the courts and legislature navigate this next chapter. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, June 5, 2025.  Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

At Korea Pro's May Seoul Circuit dinner, Keon Jun Lee, founder and CEO of Brandazine, led a candid conversation about the challenges of building a startup in South Korea's competitive brand-tech landscape. Drawing from personal experience, Lee discussed the hurdles of early-stage growth, the evolution of the creator economy and the realities behind design-driven storytelling. In this episode, we share the moderated portion of the event. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.  Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode, Jeongmin and Joon Ha begin by unpacking South Korea's final presidential debate, highlighting Lee Jae-myung's correction of Kim Moon-soo's misunderstanding of nuclear latency and Kwon Young-gook's effort to steer the discussion back to policy. As attacks escalated between the frontrunners, the candidates also clashed over economic and security issues with just days left before the June 3 vote. John then explains the U.S. Court of International Trade's ruling against President Donald Trump's tariffs and how the White House's swift appeal has temporarily kept the duties in place.  The team also previews next week's Seoul Circuit event, taking place the day after the election under Chatham House rules, where they'll lead an open, off-the-record conversation on the new president's likely impact on South Korea's domestic and foreign policy. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Friday, May 30, 2025.  Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode, Jeongmin and Joon Ha analyze the first presidential TV debate that was supposed to focus on economic pledges but quickly veered into attacks over foreign policy positions and scandals. They also examine differences in economic pledges, including dueling 100-trillion-won AI investment plans and contrasting approaches to the proposed 4.5-day work week. The duo then explores the competing constitutional reform proposals released by the leading candidates. Lee Jae-myung advocates for consecutive four-year presidential terms with guardrails, including parliamentary nomination of the prime minister and strengthening the Board of Audit and Inspection, while Kim Moon-soo supports non-consecutive four-year terms to prevent a “Putin-style power entrenchment.”  The team also unpacks revelations about SK Telecom's three-year-old cybersecurity breach, with reports suggesting the attacks may have been state-backed, although the ROK government is neither confirming nor denying such a possibility. They look ahead to the rest of the planned televised debates next week as the campaign builds toward the June 3 snap election. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, May 22, 2025.  Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode, Jeongmin and Joon Ha analyze the chaotic weekend that led to Kim Moon-soo becoming the People Power Party's presidential candidate after a dramatic series of reversals. Jeongmin breaks down an overnight decision by the PPP leadership to retract Kim's candidacy, followed by a party poll that ultimately reinstated him after Han Duck-soo's withdrawal. The duo then explores the newly released ten-point policy visions of the three main presidential candidates, with Lee Jae-myung emphasizing post-crisis recovery and state-led technological sector innovation, Kim Moon-soo focusing on pro-business deregulation and stronger national defense, and minor candidate Lee Jun-seok positioning himself as a reformer for younger generations. The team also unpacks the recent temporary agreement between the U.S. and China to dramatically reduce tariffs for a 90-day window and the South Korean officials' cautious response amid ongoing global trade uncertainties. They look ahead to the upcoming presidential debates and other election-related schedules throughout the rest of May, building up until the June 3 snap election. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim), Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner) and correspondent Joon Ha Park (@joonhawrites), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, May 15, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode, Jeongmin and Joon Ha dive into the fissure within the ruling People Power Party as presidential nominee Kim Moon-soo files a court injunction to block party efforts to replace him, accusing leaders of coercion to merge his candidacy with former Acting President Han Duck-soo. Kim has threatened to form a surprise “big tent” alliance with unexpected political figures, reportedly including former Justice Party leader Sim Sang-jeung, if dropped. The duo also unpacks the Seoul High Court's decision to delay Democratic Party nominee Lee Jae-myung's retrial, giving him a clear pathway to the presidency. They break down the Czech court's injunction against Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power's $18 billion nuclear deal, and the duo look ahead to the Taeguk military exercise, campaign rallies and possible TV debates. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim), Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner) and correspondent Joon Ha Park (@joonhawrites), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, May 8, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

At Korea Pro's April Seoul Circuit dinner, essayist Colin Marshall (No Summarizing Korea) led a wide-ranging discussion on the complexities of South Korean political identity. Drawing from years of observation, Marshall explored how the country's ideological divisions often defy Western left-right frameworks. In this episode, we share the moderated portion of the event. The Q&A session has been omitted, as it took place under Chatham House Rule. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

This week's episode opens with Jeongmin walking us through a rollercoaster week in South Korean politics. Former Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung secured the party's presidential nomination over former Gyeonggi governor Kim Dong-yeon last week, while the People Power Party (PPP) narrowed its primary field to former party leader Han Dong-hoon and former labor minister Kim Moon-soo. The team then breaks down the dramatic sequence that followed: a surprise Supreme Court ruling in Lee's election law case, and — just one hour later — Acting President Han Duck-soo's resignation and public address, setting the stage for his own presidential run. They then discuss key implications from the week's political chaos, including the National Assembly's surprise bipartisan agreement on a supplementary budget and the potential for the eventual PPP nominee to form an alliance with Han. John discusses the cyber attack that has struck SK Telecom, affecting 23 to 25 million users whose identities may have been compromised. Finally, the trio looks ahead to a critical deadline on May 3, when the PPP will decide which of its final two contenders will be its nominee for the presidential election, and previews the fast-approaching May 11 candidate registration deadline. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode, Jeongmin opens with her analysis of South Korea's shifting voter blocs, where former Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung's “centrist” repositioning has expanded his lead ahead of the snap presidential election. Jeongmin and Joon Ha then break down the legal and political aftershocks of former President Moon Jae-in's indictment for alleged bribery, and assess the People Power Party's decision to narrow its primary field to four contenders. Jeongmin and John follow with a wide-ranging discussion on the region's changing security landscape — from Japan's “one theater” concept to China's new fixed platform in the Yellow Sea, to Washington quietly shifting U.S. Forces Korea's mission. Finally, Jeongmin looks ahead to next week's key developments in the race, including the two main parties' selection of their respective nominees for the upcoming presidential election. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, April 24, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode, John breaks down the global economic and political turbulence sparked by Donald Trump's on-again, off-again tariff policies. As Washington wavers between imposing, pausing, withdrawing and threatening new tariffs, several countries — including South Korea — have begun bilateral talks to seek exemptions. John explains how the resulting uncertainty is paralyzing corporate investment and destabilizing markets. Then, Jeongmin and Joon Ha walk listeners through the latest developments in South Korea's snap presidential election. The ruling People Power Party has narrowed its candidate pool from 11 to eight, while the Democratic Party faces an uphill battle to present a viable challenge to Lee Jae-myung's overwhelming lead. The team also discusses the U.S. Department of Energy's inclusion of South Korea on its list of sensitive countries, and what the South Korean government might be able to do about it going forward. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, April 17, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this week's episode, Jeongmin, John and Joon Ha unpack a dramatic week in South Korea's economic and political landscape. They begin with U.S. President Donald Trump's abrupt reversal on “reciprocal tariffs,” which briefly calmed global markets on Thursday but left South Korea bracing for more uncertainty. John explains how bond yields, stock prices and investor sentiment all flashed warning signs before Trump hit pause. The trio then turns to South Korea's fast-moving presidential race, now officially underway after last week's Constitutional Court decision to uphold former President Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment. With public officials required to resign 30 days before party primaries, major political figures are stepping forward — including Lee Jae-myung, Kim Moon-soo and Ahn Cheol-soo — with more expected to join in the days ahead. Finally, they preview a key date on the calendar: April 15, when the U.S. Department of Energy will formally designate South Korea as a “sensitive country,” a move that could reshape bilateral energy cooperation and tech export controls. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

In this special episode, Jeongmin hosts professors Erik Mobrand and Cho Hee-kyung for a quick-fire Korea Pro briefing analyzing the historic Constitutional Court ruling on Friday that removed President Yoon Suk-yeol from office — making him the second South Korean president impeached and removed by the court. Jeongmin kicks off with a comprehensive 10-minute summary of the Constitutional Court's ruling, detailing how the justices unanimously voted to uphold Yoon's impeachment and explaining the language they used in their decisive verdict.  Jeongmin summarizes the court's extensive deliberation process, and outlines how the justices structured their evaluation around five specific grounds for impeachment. She explains how the court comprehensively rejected almost all of Yoon's defenses, including his claim that the martial law was merely a “warning” or a “plea” with no legal basis in the constitution. Professor Cho explains the reasons behind the court's unanimous ruling and the political context behind the decision's delay. She discusses how the timing may have been influenced by the appellate court's March decision to acquit main opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung of his election law violation conviction, along with how the justices evaluated contested witness testimony and hearsay evidence differently than in a criminal proceeding. Professor Mobrand examines the political implications of Yoon's removal, arguing that the democratic resilience shown by ordinary citizens created a powerful check on executive overreach. He challenges the framing of South Korea's society as simply “polarized,” suggesting that specific politicians have deliberately exacerbated divisions rather than this reflecting deep societal rifts. The panel explores why the military largely refused to fully implement Yoon's martial law orders, institutional weaknesses exposed by this constitutional crisis, and what reforms are most urgently needed — including reducing concentrated power in the presidential office and prosecutorial authority. Erik Mobrand is a professor of Korean Studies at Seoul National University's Graduate School of International Studies, an expert on political transformation in Korea with a focus on the interplay of informal power and formal institutions. Cho Hee-kyung is a professor at Hongik University's College of Law whose research spans international economic law, intellectual property, human rights and media law. Editor's Note: During the discussion, Professor Cho referred to the appellate Seoul High Court that handed down the verdict on opposition leader Lee Jae-myung on March 26 erroneously as the Supreme Court. This clarification has been noted for accuracy. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on the night of Friday, April 4, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson