South Korea’s Labor Rights: Why Economic Strength Depends on Protecting Workers
Labor reform has been a significant focus for Seoul, particularly as it balances economic growth with the need to protect workers’ rights.
How the War in Iran Reshapes South Korea and Japan’s Nuclear Strategy
Iran’s failure to achieve nuclear latency has significant implications for South Korea and Japan’s thinking on their own nuclear strategy.
Understanding the $350 Billion MOU Putting Seoul Under Pressure
The deal may not only help Korea avoid higher tariffs, but also lower the cost of capital for strategic investments in the United States.
U.S.-South Korea Relations in 2026: Key Issues to Watch
From alliance recalibration to the “Korea Discount,” KEI experts analyze the critical issues shaping U.S.–South Korea relations in 2026.
Where Korea-China Ties Are Heading Following the Lee-Xi Summit
“China for economy, U.S. for security” is no longer tenable; time will tell just how this new Korea-China relationship will take shape.
What May Be Driving Trump’s Latest Tariff Threat Against South Korea
Investment commitments, tariff deals, and bilateral MOUs may now have to be completed with the caveat in mind that anything can change at a moment’s notice.
Lee Jae Myung Tests South Korea’s Pragmatic Diplomacy Between China and Japan
Seoul signaled commitment to a regional policy of pragmatic diplomacy, economic security, and broader regional stabilization.
U.S.-South Korea AI Cooperation and the Future of Work
The foundation of AI, including advanced chips, memory, sensors, and compute capacity, is where the U.S. and Korean supply chains are the most intertwined.
South Korea’s Economic Rebound is Projected to Continue
While Korea’s export growth in 2025 slowed due to protectionist trade policies, real GDP growth was expected to pick up in 2026.
2025 Year in Review: Progress, Tensions, and What Comes Next for South Korea and Japan
2025 was always going to be significant because it was the fiftieth anniversary of the two countries establishing diplomatic relations.