10 Issues to Watch for on the Korean Peninsula in 2025

January 22, 2025 • Sang Kim

The year 2024 ended with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law, his impeachment by the National Assembly, and the ensuing political turmoil and uncertainty. While 2025 will be largely defined by South Korean efforts to regain normalcy and stability in its domestic and global affairs, as well as the inauguration of the Donald Trump administration, other key issues will define and impact the Korean Peninsula this year.

[2024 in Review] Redefining Inter-Korean Relations

December 30, 2024 • Robert King

While South Korean governments across a broad political spectrum have sought closer relations with North Korea, the Kim regime has opposed any such strengthening of ties, even when they have been to the advantage of the North Korean people.

[2024 in Review] North Korea’s Economy: It’s All About Money

December 20, 2024 • William Brown

Financial issues plagued North Korea in 2024 with efforts to stop hyperinflation and currency debasement suddenly coming unraveled.

The China-North Korea Relationship

November 29, 2024 • Clara Fong

China-North Korea relations remain stable to some extent, but they have also weathered perennial strains and an enduring mutual distrust.

Another Failure to Reauthorize the North Korean Human Rights Act, Despite House Approval of the Bill?

November 27, 2024 • Robert King

It is likely that the Senate will fail to act on the North Korean Human Rights Act before adjourning in December.

Record Number of High-Level UN Meetings Devoted to North Korean Human Rights in 2024

November 14, 2024 • Robert King

UN institutions have given significant attention to human rights in North Korea throughout the year, and the effort will continue.

Pyongyang’s Dangerous Axis with Moscow

October 21, 2024 • Daniel Sneider

The evidence of a deepening military axis between North Korea and Russia has been mounting in recent days, causing alarm from Kyiv to Seoul.

Korea’s Strategic Futures Between Continental and Maritime Powers

October 18, 2024 • Jeffrey Robertson

Historically, the Korean Peninsula has acted as a pivot over which continental and maritime powers vie for control and influence.

Pyongyang Worries About the Collapse of Its Won

October 17, 2024 • William Brown

Difficult economic reforms are needed for North Korea to stabilize its currency.

“Do-Nothing Congress” Deserves That Name as the North Korean Human Rights Act is Still on Hold

September 23, 2024 • Robert King

Unfortunately, one of the unfinished agenda items for Congress is reauthorizing the North Korean Human Rights Act.