Growth and Climate Change Mitigation At Odds
The South Korean government’s dual aim of promoting economic growth while pursuing carbon neutrality faces headwinds.
Spotify’s Entry Indicates How Seoul Shapes Competition
Unlike other platforms like Uber, Spotify does not threaten any domestic stakeholders and offers more advantages to Korean firms.
OPCON Transfer Follows Pragmatic Path
Despite President Moon’s pledge to accelerate the transfer of wartime command of U.S.-Korea forces, both governments reaffirm that this will be conditions-based.
Renewed ROK-Japan Tensions with Court Decision on Comfort Women
A court ruling on wartime legacy potentially reignites tensions with Japan in spite of South Korea’s foreign policy aims.
Cabinet Reshuffle to Reflect Focus on North Korea
Moon Jae-in’s former special envoy to North Korea is expected to coordinate Pyongyang engagement with the Biden administration.
Korea Aims to Reach Carbon Neutrality by 2050
President Moon Jae-in pledged in October 2020 that Korea will reach carbon neutrality by 2050, joining a number of European countries and Japan. With China…
The Government Faces Pressure to Prosecute and Save Corporations
The Korean government is in the awkward position of attempting to prop up the economy through flagship corporations while holding them accountable.
The Government Changes Tune on Housing Policy
The Moon Jae-in administration responds to the failure of existing policy to address public demand for more affordable housing.
Worker Voices Not Reflected in Workplace Safety Bill
The government responded to concerns around workplace safety, but produced an incomplete law because it did not engage workers who would be most affected.
Growing Pushback Against Public Health Measures
Difficulties created by the prolonged pandemic creates tensions between shop owners and public health authorities.