KOREA PRO Podcast

koreapro.org
  • 0.0 (0)
  • DAILY NEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
KOREA PRO Podcast

A weekly conversation about the most pressing stories shaping South Korea right now. Quick, smart and to the point, hosted by KOREA PRO’s Jeongmin Kim and John Lee.

  1. Trump’s win sparks defense, trade concerns in South Korea — Ep. 46

    5 DAYS AGO

    Trump’s win sparks defense, trade concerns in South Korea — Ep. 46

    In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin and John examine the wide-ranging implications of Donald Trump’s election victory for South Korea. The discussion begins with an analysis of how Trump’s return to the White House could affect Seoul’s defense posture, including growing skepticism about the U.S. nuclear umbrella despite recent initiatives like the Washington Declaration. They explore how this might amplify calls for an independent South Korean nuclear program and raise questions about the recently finalized Special Measures Agreement. The conversation then turns to economic implications, particularly regarding the future of the Inflation Reduction Act. While Trump has promised to dismantle this legislation, John explains why Republican congressional support for the act’s job-creating benefits in red states might complicate these plans. He suggests that instead of abolishing the law outright, Trump might pivot from the current subsidy-based approach to a tariff-focused strategy. Jeongmin highlights the diplomatic dynamics at play, noting President Yoon Suk-yeol’s swift congratulatory message to Trump and their subsequent 12-minute phone call, where North Korea emerged as a key topic. The hosts discuss the significance of their planned meeting and Yoon’s explicit acknowledgment of Trump’s “Make America Great Again” platform. Looking ahead, the team examines how Seoul might navigate the challenges posed by Trump’s America First policies, from potential defense cost-sharing negotiations to preserving key elements of the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement. The discussion emphasizes South Korea’s likely efforts to maintain stable alliance relations while protecting its economic interests. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

    15 min
  2. ROK’s Ukraine policy, espionage in China and Czech nuclear deal delays — Ep. 45

    1 NOV

    ROK’s Ukraine policy, espionage in China and Czech nuclear deal delays — Ep. 45

    In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin and John examine three major developments affecting South Korea’s international relations and business interests. The discussion opens with an analysis of South Korea’s evolving response to North Korea’s military support for Russia in Ukraine. While Seoul is considering sending observers to Ukraine, Jeongmin and John explore why decisions about potential weapons support might remain in limbo until after the upcoming U.S. presidential election. The conversation then turns to Beijing’s detention of a South Korean national on industrial espionage charges. This marks the first such case since China’s anti-espionage law update in April 2023. Jeongmin and John contrast this with South Korea’s own outdated espionage laws, which have remained unchanged since the 1950s despite parliamentary discussions that took place in the summer due to the Sue Mi Terry case. The final segment focuses on the Czech government’s decision to temporarily pause contract negotiations with Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power following legal challenges from American and French competitors. While Seoul remains optimistic, Jeongmin and John explore the complex geopolitical factors that could influence the final outcome. Looking ahead, Jeongmin and John invite listeners to Korea Pro’s upcoming Seoul Circuit event on Nov. 7, featuring a special discussion with Arirang TV’s lead correspondent Sooyoung Oh about the U.S. presidential election’s implications for South Korea. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

    17 min
  3. Seoul signals ‘step-by-step’ plan for weapons provision to Ukraine — Ep. 44

    25 OCT

    Seoul signals ‘step-by-step’ plan for weapons provision to Ukraine — Ep. 44

    In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin is joined by Joon Ha, Korea Pro's correspondent, to discuss South Korea's potential shift in Ukraine policy and developments in defense capabilities. They begin by examining South Korea's increasingly clear signals about potentially providing weapons to Ukraine, triggered by an apparent deployment of North Korean troops to Russia. They discuss how this development may have crossed Seoul's previously stated "red line" and the government's new framework for military aid, shifting from "lethal vs. non-lethal" to "offensive vs. defensive" weapons categorization. The conversation then turns to South Korea's plans to deploy domestically produced drones by year's end, complementing the recently announced procurement from Poland. They also discuss the Polish president's scheduled visit to South Korean defense manufacturers and ongoing negotiations for a second round of K2 tank exports. Looking ahead, Jeongmin and Joon Ha preview the second anniversary of the Itaewon disaster and potential political tensions surrounding memorial attendance, as well as South Korea’s decision to increase electricity fee for large industrial users while freezing household rates. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

    15 min
  4. Han Kang’s Nobel win and South Korea’s diplomatic balancing act — Ep. 43

    18 OCT

    Han Kang’s Nobel win and South Korea’s diplomatic balancing act — Ep. 43

    In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John is joined by Joon Ha, Korea Pro’s junior news reporter, to discuss recent developments in South Korean literature, diplomacy and international relations. The duo begin by celebrating Han Kang’s Nobel Prize in Literature, making her the second Korean to receive a Nobel Prize. Joon Ha highlights the international acclaim for Han’s work and the role of translators in bringing Korean literature to a global audience. They also touch on the controversial blacklisting of cultural figures, including Han, during the Park Geun-hye administration. The conversation then shifts to last week’s meeting between South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in Laos. John and Joon Ha analyze the leaders’ efforts to continue the rapprochement process while navigating domestic political sensitivities, particularly in light of Ishiba’s ceremonial offering to the Yasukuni Shrine. The duo then discusses former U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims about South Korea’s financial contributions for U.S. troop presence. They examine the potential implications for U.S.-ROK relations if Trump were to win the upcoming U.S. presidential election, considering the recent negotiations of the 12th Special Measures Agreement. Looking ahead, John notes the anticipated meeting between Yoon and ruling People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon, discussing the potential impact of recent by-election victories on their relationship and party dynamics. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Oct. 17, 2024 Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

    16 min
  5. South Korea’s ASEAN push and economic diplomacy in action — Ep. 42

    11 OCT

    South Korea’s ASEAN push and economic diplomacy in action — Ep. 42

    In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John and Joon Ha, Korea Pro’s junior correspondent, discuss South Korea’s recent diplomatic and economic initiatives in the Asia-Pacific region. The hosts begin by examining President Yoon Suk-yeol’s diplomatic tour through Southeast Asia, focusing on the president’s state visits to the Philippines and Singapore, exploring the implications of these strengthened bilateral ties for South Korea's regional influence. The conversation then turns to the newly established Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN. John and Joon Ha discuss the significance of this agreement, particularly its emphasis on supply chain resilience, smart cities and green energy collaboration. The duo then delve into the recent defense talks between South Korea and Japan, considering how these discussions fit into the broader context of trilateral cooperation with the United States and the response to North Korea’s growing military ties with Russia. John and Joon Ha then shift gears to discuss South Korea's inclusion in the FTSE Russell World Government Bond Index (WGBI). They break down the importance of this development, discussing the potential for substantial foreign capital inflows and its implications for South Korea’s bond market and overall economy. They also explore the challenges that come with this inclusion, such as regulatory uncertainties and the potential for increased market volatility. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Oct. 10, 2024 Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

    14 min
  6. New Japanese prime minister, South Korea’s missile defense strategy — Ep. 41

    4 OCT

    New Japanese prime minister, South Korea’s missile defense strategy — Ep. 41

    In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin and John delve into recent geopolitical events and their potential impact on South Korea. The discussion opens with an analysis of Shigeru Ishiba’s appointment as the new Japanese prime minister. They explore the implications of Ishiba’s more dovish stance toward South Korea, contrasting it with his rival Sanae Takaichi’s hawkish position. The hosts consider the potential trajectory of South Korea-Japan relations under Ishiba’s leadership, acknowledging the constraints posed by conservative factions within Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party. Next, they turn their attention to Iran’s recent missile attacks on Israel and turn the discussion toward South Korea’s missile defense capabilities. The hosts weigh the cost-effectiveness of further investments in missile defense against the development of offensive capabilities, particularly in light of the threat posed by a nuclear-armed North Korea. Looking ahead, the hosts discuss South Korean prosecutors’ decision not to pursue legal action against the first lady in the Dior bag scandal. They also touch on President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declining approval ratings and the rumored tensions between the president and People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon over the investigation of the first lady. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Oct. 2, 2024 Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

    18 min
  7. Hostile corporate takeover, AI push and tax revenue shortfall — Ep. 40

    27 SEPT

    Hostile corporate takeover, AI push and tax revenue shortfall — Ep. 40

    In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John and Joon Ha explore recent developments in South Korea’s economic and industrial landscape. The discussion begins with an analysis of the intensifying takeover battle for Korea Zinc as Young Poong and MBK Partners increase their bid to $1.7 billion. The team examines the potential implications for the company’s future projects and the broader impact on workers and supply chains. Next, they turn their attention to South Korea’s $7.5 billion AI manufacturing initiative. John and Joon Ha compare this investment to those of regional competitors and discuss the challenges South Korean companies may face in the global AI race. The conversation then shifts to South Korea’s projected tax revenue shortfall for 2024. The team delves into the causes of this shortfall, the government’s approach to addressing it and the potential economic implications. Additionally, they explore the significance of the resumed South Korea-Japan talks on continental shelf development, marking the first such discussion in nearly four decades. Looking ahead, John and Joon Ha touch on the upcoming visit of Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico and its potential impact on bilateral relations. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Sept. 26, 2024 Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

    13 min
  8. Fed rate cut, Yoon’s Czech visit and university reform proposal — Ep. 39

    20 SEPT

    Fed rate cut, Yoon’s Czech visit and university reform proposal — Ep. 39

    In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, co-hosts Jeongmin and John are joined by Korea Pro’s junior correspondent Joon Ha to explore recent developments in South Korea’s economic, diplomatic and educational sectors. The discussion begins with an analysis of the Federal Reserve’s decision to cut its benchmark interest rate by half a percentage point, marking the first reduction in four and a half years. The team examines the potential implications of this move for South Korea’s economy. Next, they turn their attention to President Yoon Suk-yeol’s state visit to the Czech Republic. The team delves into Yoon’s efforts to encourage Prague to finalize its decision to collaborate with Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power in constructing the European country’s nuclear power plant. Joon Ha then presents insights from his recent analysis for Korea Pro, focusing on the Bank of Korea’s proposal to reform the country’s university admissions system, which aims to address economic inequality stemming from South Korea’s highly competitive academic culture. Looking ahead, Jeongmin notes that South Koreans have returned to work following the Chuseok holidays, including the National Assembly. She highlights two significant developments: the renewed push for a special prosecutorial investigation into the first lady and the main opposition party’s unilateral passage of a bill mandating state support for regional gift vouchers. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim) and Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner), diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring ROK politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Sept. 19, 2024 Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

    17 min
See All (53)

About

A weekly conversation about the most pressing stories shaping South Korea right now. Quick, smart and to the point, hosted by KOREA PRO’s Jeongmin Kim and John Lee.

Information

  • Creator
    koreapro.org
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    53
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Korea Risk Group (NK Consulting Inc.)
  • Show Website
    KOREA PRO Podcast

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada