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.
Efforts to Distribute the Cost of COVID-19 Lacks Focus
The Korean government has not decided whether to protect private sector entities that employ the most workers or contribute to overall economic growth.
National Call for Child Protection
A nationwide campaign advanced child welfare measures despite the government’s hesitation intervening in family affairs.
The Biden Administration and the U.S.-ROK Alliance
Joseph Biden will be inaugurated on Wednesday, 20 January, bringing the Trump era to an end. Under the 45th president, American alliances faced significant stress…