The Peninsula
The Peninsula blog is a project of the Korea Economic Institute. It is designed to provide a wide ranging forum for discussion of the foreign policy, economic, and social issues that impact the Korean peninsula.
South Korea’s Soft Power Brings International Attention to Domestic Issues
Jae Chang
June 20, 2022
Popularity of Korean-made shows on international platforms created an avenue to bring to light a prominent social issue in South Korea.
Limitations on K-Pop’s Commitment to Sustainability
Kaitlyn King
June 19, 2022
Although K-pop groups and fans promote progressive causes, the industry’s underlying consumerism counteract the push for sustainability.
Obstacles to Reversing the Rise in Anger-related Crimes
Yu Na Choi
June 18, 2022
The generalized labeling of anger-related crimes may prevent the government from devising a policy response that addresses any underlying social causes.
Few Options to Help with North Korea's COVID Outbreak
Terrence Matsuo
June 15, 2022
Despite these regular reports in North Korean state media about its COVID outbreak, Pyongyang has shown little interest in international aid.
Reversing Low Fertility With Work
Yong Kwon
June 6, 2022
Benchmarking the example set by Sweden, bringing more women into the workforce may be the solution to reversing the fertility rate decline in South Korea.
Headwinds for LGBTQ Rights in South Korea
Mai Anna Pressley
June 5, 2022
South Korea’s LGBTQ community continues to face barriers to enjoying full civil rights as ambivalence and homophobia embolden political discrimination.
Legal Challenge to Wage Cap on Older Workers
Sarah Marshall
June 4, 2022
The system sought to free up private sector resources to hire more youths, but it has exacerbated insecurity of older workers.
South Korea’s Struggle with School Violence
Mai Anna Pressley
May 28, 2022
South Korea is experiencing a surge in bullying accusations against public figures - an extension of the ongoing struggle against school violence.