Lee Jae-myung’s Centrist Pivot and the Future of U.S.–South Korea Alignment
South Korea’s friends and neighbors are watching not just what Lee says but whether he governs as the centrist he campaigned to be.
Lee Jae-myung’s Election: A Leader With a Mandate Who Has a Lot on His Plate
Depending on how Lee leads, South Korea may be on the threshold of dramatic domestic and international policy changes.
Controversial Gwangju: Why May 18 Stands Out among Korea’s Democratization Movement Anniversaries
Distorted historical narratives prevent South Korea from fully coming to terms with the 1980 Gwangju Democracy Movement and inhibit democratic growth.
Political Ethics Take Center Stage in Election Discourse
Compared to campaign pledges from 10 years ago, candidates today speak more about corruption than economic growth.
Conventional Economic Promise Boost Polling
Presidential Candidate Lee Jae-myung’s economic promises appeal to moderate voters and boost his electability.
Public Anxiety Around National Debt
Growing opposition to another round of stimulus payments for COVID-19 relief reflects the public’s concern over national debt.
Corruption Allegations Catch Public Attention
The public once again weighs the transparency and inscrutability of candidates ahead of next year’s presidential election.