KOREA PRO Podcast

This week, John and Joon Ha examine South Korea's record fines against Coupang over alleged personal data protection violations, including what the penalties could mean for the U.S.-listed e-commerce giant, Seoul-Washington trade tensions and the broader business environment for foreign companies operating in Korea. They also discuss the fallout from ballot shortages during the June 3 local elections and the growing protests targeting the National Election Commission, looking at how conservatives, university students and election fraud activists have converged around demands for greater accountability from the constitutional body. The conversation then turns to President Lee Jae Myung's summit with European Union leaders in Brussels, breaking down the significance of new agreements on trade, technology and security cooperation, as well as ongoing points of friction over defense procurement and steel exports. Finally, the Korea Pro team looks at President Lee's nomination of former Naver CEO Han Sung-sook as prime minister, what her selection signals about the administration's focus on artificial intelligence and economic growth, and the emerging battle for leadership of the Democratic Party ahead of its August convention. 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, June 11, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

On this week's episode, the team breaks down South Korea's June 3 local elections, where the Democratic Party won 12 of 16 major mayoral and gubernatorial races while the People Power Party held Seoul. They examine what Oh Se-hoon's narrow victory in the capital means for President Lee Jae Myung's second year in office, as well as how ballot shortages in some Seoul districts gave the PPP new ammunition against the National Election Commission. The conversation also looks at key by-election results, including Han Dong-hoon's win in Busan, the future of the conservative camp and signs of possible Democratic Party leadership changes ahead. The episode closes with a look at what these developments could mean for South Korea's political and business landscape in the weeks ahead as well as a preview of a major U.S. delegation visit and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's trip to Seoul for meetings with Korean business leaders. 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, June 4, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

This week on the Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin Kim and John Lee sit down with Ankit Panda, Stanton Senior Fellow in the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, to discuss how U.S. alliances are changing and what that means for South Korea. The episode begins with a look at why U.S. allies should not be treated as a single category, and how South Korea's alliance with Washington differs from those involving NATO, Japan, Canada and Australia. The conversation then turns to South Korea's growing defense autonomy, extended deterrence and the debate over whether Seoul could eventually seek its own nuclear weapons. The episode also looks at how U.S. policy uncertainty, regional contingencies and the Strait of Hormuz crisis are shaping South Korea's strategic choices — from energy security to Taiwan and OPCON transfer. 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 May 21, 2026 Audio edited by Alannah Hill

This week on the Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin Kim, John Lee and Joon Ha Park break down a packed week in South Korean politics, business and diplomacy — starting with Samsung Electronics' last-minute labor deal that averted a planned strike.  The episode also examines the fallout from Starbucks Korea's controversial “Tank Day” marketing campaign, which drew backlash for language and imagery linked to South Korea's pro-democracy history.  The conversation then turns to President Lee Jae Myung's summit with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Andong, following Lee's earlier visit to Takaichi's hometown of Nara in January.  Later, the team looks at the Strait of Hormuz crisis, after the South Korean tanker HMM Universal Winner became the first of dozens of stranded Korean vessels to leave the waterway.  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, May 21st, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

This week's episode is hosted by Joon Ha Park with Shreyas Reddy in the studio, filling in while regular hosts Jeongmin Kim and John Lee are away in Singapore on a business trip. The episode begins with South Korea's investigation into the attack on the HMM Namu near the Strait of Hormuz, as officials say Iran is the most likely actor behind the strike while Seoul continues gathering evidence before making a formal accusation. The episode then turns to Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back's visit to Washington, including discussions on South Korea's possible role in restoring transit through the Strait of Hormuz and differences between Seoul and Washington over the timeline for wartime operational control transfer. On diplomacy, Joon Ha and Shreyas discuss U.S.-China trade talks held in Seoul ahead of Donald Trump and Xi Jinping's summit in Beijing, as President Lee Jae Myung sought to position South Korea as a stable partner for both Washington and Beijing. The episode also examines Japan's shift on arms export rules and what it could mean for South Korea's defense industry, especially in Southeast Asian markets where Tokyo may have diplomatic advantages. 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, May 14th, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

This week's episode begins with the confusion over an explosion and fire aboard an HMM-operated vessel near the Strait of Hormuz, as South Korean officials worked to determine whether the incident was caused by a strike or an onboard accident.  The episode then turns to South Korea's consumer prices, which rose 2.6% year on year in April, driven largely by higher petroleum costs.  On business and labor, the hosts look at internal divisions within Samsung's labor unions, especially tensions between semiconductor workers and employees in the company's device experience division over bonus demands.  The episode also examines a failed National Assembly vote on proposed constitutional amendments, including changes related to the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement, checks on executive power and regional development.  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, April 29th, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

This week's Korea Pro Podcast begins with a look at major legal developments involving former President Yoon Suk Yeol, including prosecutors seeking a heavier sentence in one case and an appeals court ruling related to former first lady Kim Keon Hee and the Deutsche Motors stock manipulation case. The episode then turns to the growing dispute over Coupang, following a letter from dozens of U.S. Republican lawmakers criticizing what they called discriminatory action against the U.S.-listed company.  On defense and foreign policy, the hosts examine South Korea's bid for Canada's submarine project, the export prospects for the KF-21 fighter jet and concerns that prioritizing defense exports could affect South Korea's own military modernization.  Finally, the episode looks at South Korea's latest economic indicators, including strong export and manufacturing figures driven by semiconductors, while noting continued weakness in consumption and services.  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, April 29th, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

This week's Korea Pro Podcast begins with a look at a developing controversy surrounding North Korea intelligence assessments, focusing on remarks by South Korea's unification minister suggesting the existence of a third uranium enrichment site.  On the security front, the episode explores alliance dynamics between the U.S. and South Korea, including debate over the transfer of Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile munitions to the Middle East. The hosts also examine recent comments by U.S. Forces Korea leadership regarding a potential timeline for wartime operational control (OPCON) transfer. On the economic and diplomatic front, the episode turns to President Lee Jae Myung's visits to India and Vietnam, where discussions centered on energy security, supply chain resilience and industrial cooperation. Agreements with India focused on securing chemical feedstocks and expanding shipbuilding collaboration, reflecting a more pragmatic approach to bilateral ties. In Vietnam, talks included nuclear energy cooperation, signaling Seoul's efforts to diversify energy partnerships and navigate constraints tied to U.S. technology. Finally, the episode looks at South Korea's economic outlook, noting stronger-than-expected first-quarter GDP growth driven by semiconductor exports, alongside growing concerns about inflation, supply disruptions and weakening consumer sentiment.  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, April 23rd, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

This week's episode begins with a look at the government's newly introduced “smart regulation” initiative, which aims to streamline rules while preserving those deemed essential. Particular attention is given to labor-related regulations, including the 52-hour workweek, where the government appears reluctant to pursue reforms sought by industry despite signaling openness to deregulation. On the economic and energy front, the episode explores South Korea's response to instability in the Middle East, highlighting a series of diplomatic visits that secured agreements for crude oil and naphtha supplies. While these deals amount to roughly three months of typical imports, the discussion underscores that they remain contingent on uncertain delivery conditions amid ongoing conflict, with shipping disruptions and regional tensions still unresolved. On the security front, the discussion turns to alliance coordination, including ongoing U.S.-ROK joint air drills aimed at countering North Korean threats. The hosts note that these exercises continue largely unaffected by developments elsewhere, even as reports emerge of potential new U.S. military planning in other regions, which could complicate alliance dynamics. Finally, the episode looks at upcoming political and institutional developments, including a delayed confirmation hearing for the Bank of Korea governor nominee and the nomination of a new U.S. ambassador to South Korea.  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, April 16th, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

This week's episode begins with a look at the semiconductor sector, where major firms like Samsung and LG are reporting strong earnings driven in part by rising global demand linked to instability in the Middle East. However, the discussion highlights that these gains may be short-lived, as disruptions to logistics, energy supplies and critical materials — including hard-to-replace resources like helium — could pose longer-term risks to the industry's competitiveness. The conversation then shifts to domestic policy, focusing on a proposed 26-trillion-won supplementary budget designed to mitigate the economic fallout from the ongoing conflict. The team outlines how the plan aims to support businesses, stabilize energy costs and provide relief to households, while also noting political disagreements over how best to allocate funding — particularly in relation to semiconductor investment and regional development. On the security front, the episode explores South Korea's evolving military strategy, including plans to significantly reduce troop levels at frontline outposts along the DMZ and replace them with advanced technologies such as AI and unmanned systems.  Finally, the episode looks outward to the broader geopolitical environment, particularly the uncertain ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran as well as how the ongoing instability in the region could impact South Korea through higher energy prices, disruptions to shipping routes and increased pressure from Washington. 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, April 9th, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

In this episode, the team breaks down the ongoing conflict involving the U.S. and Iran, focusing on remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump that suggest military objectives may be nearing completion while also raising questions about escalation and strategy.  They also examine what these developments could mean for South Korea, including pressure from Washington to take on a greater role in securing maritime routes and the broader implications for regional security and alliance dynamics, as well as how disruptions in global energy markets are already feeding into real-world economic effects, Shifting to domestic politics, the episode looks at the South Korean government's proposed supplementary budget aimed at mitigating the economic impact of the conflict, including targeted financial support measures and debate within the National Assembly. 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, April 2nd, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

This week's episode of the Korea Pro Podcast begins with the ongoing global oil shock and its ripple effects on South Korea's economy, policy decisions and public sentiment. The conversation also explores the government's response, including efforts to stabilize public concern and a forthcoming supplementary budget aimed at easing the burden of rising energy prices and minimizing industrial damage.  On the international front, the episode looks at South Korea's diplomatic and strategic positioning amid shifting global alliances, including Japan's recent engagement with the United States and the implications for Seoul. The episode also delves into reports that South Korea and other countries are considering importing Russian oil under temporary sanctions relief, weighing both the geopolitical and practical risks such a move could entail. Things wrap up with a look at defense developments, including the rollout of South Korea's first mass-produced KF-21 fighter jet and the government's broader ambitions to strengthen its defense industry, as well as a preview of upcoming diplomatic engagements and policy moves to watch in the week ahead.  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, March 26th, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

The episode focuses on the escalating U.S.-Iran conflict and its ripple effects on global alliances, particularly in Asia. President Donald Trump's shifting stance on allied contribution to the Strait of Hormuz has created uncertainty among partners and South Korea finds itself in a difficult spot, closely watching U.S.-Japan discussions while weighing its own legal, political and military constraints.  At the same time, energy security has become a pressing concern, with Seoul securing 24 million barrels of oil from the UAE as prices surge. The government is also considering a large supplementary budget to cushion the economic impact of rising energy costs. Domestically, new labor rules under the Yellow Envelope Act are already reshaping employer-worker dynamics, while mixed economic signals persist, including rising youth unemployment and a potential slowdown in the tech sector.  The episode also touches on major cultural and economic developments, including the large-scale BTS comeback concert in Seoul, which has prompted heightened security and logistical preparations, and a wave of corporate annual meetings reflecting new governance rules. 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, March 19th, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

This week's episode begins with the economic and political ripple effects of escalating conflict in the Middle East. For South Korea, which imports nearly all of its energy, the spike has triggered emergency discussions in Seoul with President Lee Jae Myung proposing temporary price ceilings on energy to shield consumers, though the policy could shift costs onto industry.  The hosts also examine security implications tied to the Middle East conflict. Reports suggest some U.S. missile defense assets stationed in South Korea — including Patriot interceptors and possibly THAAD components — may be redeployed to support operations elsewhere.  Another major topic is Washington's move to launch trade investigations under Section 301 after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling limited the Trump administration's tariff powers. The new investigations will examine whether trade practices among major U.S. partners — including South Korea — disadvantage American companies.  Finally, the podcast looks ahead to South Korea's June local elections, widely seen as the first major political test for the Lee administration. 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, March 12th, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

On this week's episode, the team unpacks how the sudden escalation in the Middle East is reverberating in Seoul. They break down the U.S. and Israel's strikes on Iran and the ensuing missile and drone attacks across the Gulf, then turn to the immediate questions for South Korea: energy security, shipping risk and market volatility tied to the Strait of Hormuz.  They also discuss President Lee Jae Myung's emergency response, including a 100 trillion won market-stabilization package, possible steps to curb fuel-price gouging and efforts to shore up oil and gas supplies, while weighing how long South Korea's reserves might last if disruption drags on. The episode then shifts to key developments at home: the government's long-delayed decision to allow Google to export high-definition map data under conditions shaped by security concerns and U.S. trade pressure, and renewed friction in the alliance after a contentious U.S. aerial drill near sensitive airspace and conflicting accounts over whether an apology was issued.  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, March 5th, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

NK News Data Correspondent Anton Sokolin joins this week's episode to discuss the recent controversy around the Russian Embassy in Seoul displaying a large “Victory will be Ours” banner as the fourth anniversary of the Ukraine war approached.  The episode then pivots to a bigger question: how much Russia actually cares about South Korea. Anton explains how Korea has long held importance in Russian foreign policy, even if the current moment is skewed toward Pyongyang due to the Russia–North Korea strategic partnership and wartime alignment.  John and Anton also dig into the practical side of “hedging” in Seoul's Russia policy: South Korea's sanctions alignment with the West alongside continued trade in non-sanctioned areas and companies' attempts to keep options open for a postwar return.  A major forward-looking thread is the Northern Sea Route. Anton explains the appeal for South Korea of shipping containers via the Arctic to cut transit time to European ports like Rotterdam, and why Russia's nuclear-powered icebreaker fleet is central to the route.  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. 26, 2026. Audio edited by Alannah Hill

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