Blog
The Koreas
COVID-19 Has Widened South Korea’s Gender Gap
By Troy Stangarone
As in many countries, the pandemic has had an outsized impact on women.
A Korean Poet Is the Latest Example of China’s ‘Cultural Imperialism’
By Choi Seong Hyeon
Baidu’s introduction of a popular Korean poet as “Chinese” adds more fuel to the theory that China is trying to “steal” Korean cultural icons.
Korean Volleyball Players’ Abuse Case Triggers National Reckoning on Toxic Sports Culture
By Mitch Shin
Following reports alleging physical and verbal abuse by two female national volleyball team players, more and more professional athletes have been accused of bullying.
Why South Korea Still Hasn’t Vaccinated Anyone
By Justin Fendos
South Korea's delayed start to vaccinations is likely due to the government's initial preference for domestic production.
Harvard Professor’s Article Sparks Outrage Over Its Depiction of Japanese Military Brothels
By Mitch Shin
While U.S. scholars and politicians criticized the article, it was defended by far-right activists in Japan – and South Korea.
South Korea’s Largest Internet Portal Shuts Down Controversial Trending Searches Chart
By Jenna Gibson
Naver will shutter the feature, which has been subject to economic and political manipulation in the past.
Strengthening Party Leadership in North Korea
By Atsuhito Isozaki
Assessing the recent Party Congress in North Korea.
South Korea Restarts Cost-Sharing Negotiations With Washington
By Mitch Shin
With a new administration in Washington, Seoul welcomed the chance to resume SMA negotiations that have been stalled for nearly a year.
The Impact of COVID-19 on South Korean Trade in 2020
By Troy Stangarone
South Korea took minimal economic damage overall, but sector-specific impacts varied widely.
Seeking North Korea Breakthrough, Seoul Looks to Biden Administration
By Mitch Shin
The Moon administration starts dialogue with the new U.S. administration, hoping to induce Pyongyang to reactivate back channels for negotiations.
South Korea’s Vision for a More Inclusive Pandemic Recovery
By Kyle Ferrier
South Korea was already struggling with economic inequality. The pandemic has made things worse.
The Tactical Implications of North Korea’s Military Modernization
By Liang Tuang Nah
Displays of new North Korean military equipment are likely meant to implement deterrence via posturing, with no real impact on the regional balance of power.