Eye on Korea

South Korea wants nuclear-powered submarines, enrichment capabilities, and a bigger role in the global nuclear energy market. But the terms of its nuclear relationship with the United States are not built to support these goals.   Toby Dalton, Senior Fellow and Co-director of the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, breaks down the nuclear policy questions at the center of the U.S.-Korea relationship with KEI President & CEO Scott Snyder.    They explore why Seoul sees a revised agreement as key to advancing its civilian nuclear program, and whether reviving the long-dormant bilateral commission between the two countries can help close the gap on nuclear capabilities. On enrichment, Dalton walks through the question of whether it must happen on Korean soil, what ownership models might be on the table, and why the enrichment market could look completely different in just a few years.   The conversation turns to reprocessing, a lane where U.S.-Korea cooperation looks more promising and Washington is more receptive, before tackling private sector disputes that continue to prevent deeper partnership. Dalton also explains why separating nuclear-powered submarine construction from civilian nuclear objectives may pose unique challenges, why the Philadelphia shipyard is likely not a contender for where Korea's submarine gets built, and what nuclear latency means for the future of the alliance. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Trump has demanded allies like South Korea help secure the Strait of Hormuz, but what does the broader conflict with Iran mean for deterrence on the Korean Peninsula? And as assets like THAAD shift to the Middle East, how should Seoul and Washington rethink contingency planning? Jeonghun Min, professor at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy (KNDA), describes the ripple effects of U.S. Middle East policy on the U.S.-South Korea alliance. Together with KEI President & CEO Scott Snyder, topics include:   — What happens to alliance readiness when U.S. assets like THAAD get pulled to the Middle East — Why growing nuclear and naval capabilities in South Korea can multiply U.S. force projection — Why nuclear submarine acquisition and uranium enrichment are fundamentally different issues — Balancing alliance modernization with non-proliferation commitments — The Taiwan contingency question and why it's a sensitive issue for Seoul — The gap between how Washington and Seoul perceive the China threat Dr. Jeonghun Min is a professor at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy (KNDA). He is  interested in conducting research on ROK-US relations, North Korea-US relations, US-China  strategic competition, and American Politics. After joining the KNDA, he has published many  policy papers on the diplomatic and security situations on the Korean Peninsula and East Asia.  He has been working as a policy adviser for the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Unification of  Republic of Korea. Dr. Min received his Ph.D. in political science from the University of Georgia. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is heading to Washington with strong domestic support. What does she want, what can she get, and what does it mean for the U.S.-South Korea alliance? Mireya Solís, Director of the Center for Asia Policy Studies and Philip Knight Chair in Japan Studies at the Brookings Institution, joins Eye on Korea to break down the upcoming U.S.-Japan summit and its ripple effects across the Indo-Pacific.  We cover topics such as what Takaichi is hoping to accomplish in Washington, the state of U.S.-Japan trade after the Supreme Court ruling on IEEPA, Shinzo Abe's lasting legacy on Japanese foreign and economic policy, how Washington and Tokyo view the Iran war, China's grip on critical minerals and Japan's strategy to navigate it, and the future of U.S.-South Korea-Japan trilateral cooperation on security and economics. Dr. Solís is the author of "Japan's Quiet Leadership: Reshaping the Indo-Pacific," named one of Foreign Affairs' Best Books of 2024. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Mary E. Lovely, Anthony M. Solomon Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, joins KEI for a deep dive into the U.S.-China trade and investment relationship at a moment of extraordinary geopolitical uncertainty. Lovely breaks down the state of play on tariffs and examines what the Donald Trump administration is aiming to achieve in its economic confrontation with Beijing. She explains how Chinese export controls on rare earth minerals may be squeezing U.S. allies such as South Korea, why American small businesses are bearing disproportionate costs from decoupling, and what the Joe Biden administration's "de-risking" and friendshoring strategies have tangibly delivered.    The conversation highlights how the United States can leverage its advanced technology in future trade talks with China, the multifaceted nature of U.S.-China competition, and why globally coordinated action is needed to address Chinese overproduction. Lovely also makes the case for why South Korea should be front and center in any U.S. strategy to de-risk from China, assesses the sustainability of the $350 billion U.S.-Korea investment deal, and underscores why the U.S. government needs buy-in from allies and partners to achieve its economic security goals. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst   [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Jonathan Hillman, Senior Fellow for Geoeconomics at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins KEI for a wide-ranging conversation on the frontlines of U.S.-China economic competition. Hillman examines where China is pulling ahead—particularly in quantum communications and data centers — and what that means for the future of AI and technological leadership. He breaks down the opportunities and risks for allies like South Korea across critical technology areas, including AI, quantum computing, and advanced biotech manufacturing, explaining why Korea's semiconductor ecosystem is uniquely positioned to play a decisive role. The conversation also explores the enormous potential for U.S.-Korea private sector investment, how to mobilize that capital effectively, and the evolution of economic security tools like export controls and their continued relevance in 2026. Hillman also weighs in on the challenges and advantages of supply chain reshoring and offers his read on what may unfold at a potential U.S.-China summit this year. You can find the full report here: https://www.cfr.org/task-force-reports/us-economic-security ! Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.] ________________________________________ Eye on Korea is distributed under a CC BY-SA 4.0 License, which can be found at https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

Dr. Ellen Kim discusses her new coauthored book, “China's Weaponization of Trade: Resistance Through Collective Resilience,” which tracks hundreds of cases where China has used its economic power to punish or pressure other countries and companies. Ellen Kim is the Director of Academic Affairs at KEI. Previously, she was deputy director and senior fellow with the Korea Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).   Ellen reveals a surprising finding: the United States and its allies have more leverage over China than most people realize—especially when it comes to critical minerals like nickel that China desperately needs.   The book explains how China's approach to economic pressure is fundamentally different from tools the United States often uses, like sanctions, and puts forth a strategy called "collective resilience,” drawing from NATO's "attack on one is an attack on all" principle, but applied to trade and economics. Ellen also discusses "predatory liberalism," a phenomenon where countries using trade as a weapon encourages others to do the same, while smaller nations stay quiet to avoid becoming targets.   The conversation tackles critical questions for the United States, but also for South Korea, Australia, and other middle powers. Specifically, how does a mid-sized economy protect itself when caught between the United States and China? Ellen explores the Lee Jae Myung administration's efforts to reduce Korea's economic vulnerabilities and the unique challenges Korea faces as competition between Washington and Beijing intensifies.   About the Book: China's Weaponization of Trade provides the most detailed analysis yet of how China uses economic coercion, identifies where targeted countries actually have bargaining power, and offers practical strategies for how democracies can defend themselves in an era where trade has become a weapon. You can order a copy from Columbia University Press here: https://cup.columbia.edu/book/chinas-weaponization-of-trade/9780231564205/  Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.] ________________________________________ Eye on Korea is distributed under a CC BY-SA 4.0 License, which can be found at https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

As artificial intelligence drives unprecedented electricity demand, the United States and South Korea are exploring a new strategic frontier: nuclear energy cooperation. Dr. Yongsoo Hwang, Distinguished Professor for Special Affairs at the KEPCO International Nuclear Graduate School, joins Eye on Korea to explain how South Korea’s proven record of delivering nuclear projects on time and on cost, through KHNP, Doosan Enerbility, and other private sector players, coupled with deep expertise in engineering, procurement, construction, and management, positions it as a compelling partner in America’s push to scale reliable baseload power for the AI era.  Together with KEI President & CEO Scott Snyder, Dr. Hwang unpacks the technical and commercial unknowns still separating U.S. and Korean reactor pathways, including AP1000 versus AP1400 deployment, private-sector decision-making, supply chain constraints, and timelines beyond 2026. The conversation also explores South Korea’s European track record as a benchmark for U.S. market prospects, public opinion shifts driven by cost realities and NIMBY constraints, nuclear safety and waste challenges, enrichment and reprocessing debates, the growing discussion around nuclear latency, and more. The TL;DR? The U.S. and Korea can deliver secure, scalable power for the AI economy with nuclear energy.  Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.] ________________________________________ Eye on Korea is distributed under a CC BY-SA 4.0 License, which can be found at https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

Bruce Klingner, Senior Fellow at the Mansfield Foundation, unpacks why the U.S.-South Korea alliance feels simultaneously more stable than many predicted and more uncertain than it appears. Describing the relationship as a “Schrödinger’s alliance,” Bruce explores how turbulence, misperceptions, and competing strategic impulses in Washington and Seoul are shaping alliance politics. He examines the different factions within the Trump administration pulling policy in opposing directions, touches on the implications of the Maduro capture for alliance optics, the sharp contrasts between President Trump’s first and second National Security Strategies, the unresolved questions surrounding South Korea’s pursuit of nuclear-powered submarines, and more. Bruce Klingner is a Senior Fellow at the Mansfield Foundation and a leading analyst on North Korea, deterrence, and U.S.-Korea alliance dynamics, with decades of experience examining security challenges on the Korean Peninsula and in the Indo-Pacific. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.] ________________________________________ Eye on Korea is distributed under a CC BY-SA 4.0 License, which can be found at https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

Troy Stangarone, Non-Resident Fellow at the Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology, joins KEI President and CEO Scott Snyder to discuss the Trump administration’s tariff framework and how it's reshaping the U.S.-South Korea economic relationship. The conversation examines the shift away from the KORUS Free Trade Agreement toward sector-specific tariffs and how this change is influencing Korea’s trade and investment strategy. Troy analyzes the implications for automobiles, electric vehicles, semiconductors, steel, and shipbuilding, and discusses how Korean firms are navigating heightened uncertainty while working to remain competitive in the U.S. market. The discussion also looks at Korea’s efforts to diversify its global trade partnerships, rising competitive pressure from China—particularly in electric vehicles and critical technologies—and the role of new U.S.–Korea investment mechanisms outlined in recent memoranda of understanding. The episode concludes with a deeper look at shipbuilding cooperation, workforce constraints, and the long-term challenge of rebuilding U.S. industrial capacity.   Troy Stangarone is a non-resident fellow with the Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology. Previously he was the Director of the Hyundai Motor-Korea Foundation Center for Korean History and Public Policy and the Deputy Director of the Indo-Pacific Program at the Wilson Center. Mr. Stangarone specializes in economic and foreign policy relations on the Korean Peninsula and the Indo-Pacific region.  

In this episode of Eye on Korea, Jeannette Chu describes the evolution of U.S. export controls, from multilateral coordination to today’s more unilateral “small yard, high fence” approach. These shifts fit into a broader national security strategy, she argues, and have important implications for Korea’s role as a leading innovation partner in semiconductors, AI, and advanced manufacturing.   The conversation also looks at the White House’s AI Action Plan and where U.S. policy is heading next. Jeannette discusses why the traditional separation between security and economics is becoming less relevant for understanding South Korea’s foreign-policy priorities. The discussion also explores the Supreme Court case surrounding IEEPA tariff authorities, the trade and economic priorities shaping Trump’s 2025 agenda, and the biggest trade and technology issues to watch as we head into 2026.    Jeannette L. Chu is Vice President for National Security Policy at the National Foreign Trade Council, where she leads the Council’s work on export controls, sanctions, and national security regulatory policy. A former Senior Managing Director at PwC and Senior Policy Advisor at the Bureau of Industry and Security, she served nearly six years in China as the Senior Export Control Attache at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing and Consulate General in Guangzhou. She is also a Non-Resident Senior Associate with the Trustee Chair in Chinese Business and Economics at CSIS. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more!   Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst   [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Tami Overby, Senior Counselor at DGA-Albright Stonebridge Group, analyzes the outcomes of the Trump-Lee meeting on the sidelines of APEC, and the long-awaited investment deal and what it signals about the next phase of the U.S.-Korea relationship. She explains how Washington’s green light for South Korean nuclear-powered submarine development fits into alliance strategy and how it may complement U.S. shipbuilding priorities at a moment when industrial capacity and defense production are becoming central to national security planning. The conversation also examines Trump’s meeting with Xi Jinping and why Tami believes that the semiconductor export controls and purchase agreements could hold at least through next year. She discusses the unknowns that still surround the U.S.-Korea trade agreement, including how tariffs and investment incentives will be implemented, and what further clarity businesses are looking for as capital begins to move. The discussion also explores the growing importance of critical minerals to U.S. and Korean defense industries, and what Korea’s path as next year’s APEC host suggests about its long-term position in the Indo-Pacific. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Matthew P. Goodman, Distinguished Fellow for Geoeconomic Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), joins Eye on Korea to discuss this year’s APEC Summit in South Korea and why expectations should be modest.  Goodman outlines the three tiers of APEC and how this year’s policy agenda fits within its broader framework. He also highlights the importance of working-level meetings that quietly sustain regional cooperation throughout the yearlong buildup to the event. The conversation explores how APEC’s long-standing mission of reducing trade barriers increasingly clashes with the U.S. shift toward tariffs and industrial policy, and how the geopolitics of tariffs are reshaping regional dynamics, including the U.S.–Japan investment deal and prospects for a U.S.–Korea trade agreement. Goodman also assesses whether Presidents Trump and Xi were ever on track for a trade breakthrough—and why that momentum stalled before APEC. Korea, Japan, and Australia continue to have huge stakes in the U.S. security alliance and market access, Goodman argues, making decoupling very unlikely. Instead, allies may increasingly hedge by deepening participation in parallel trade arrangements such as the CPTPP, which remains an attractive vehicle for Indo-Pacific economies seeking stable and rules-based trade integration. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Wendy Cutler, Vice President at the Asia Society Policy Institute and a former U.S. trade negotiator, joins KEI President & CEO Scott Snyder to break down the state of U.S.–Korea trade talks — and why a long-awaited deal remains elusive. We examine the sticking points at the heart of negotiations, including Washington’s push for a $350 billion Korean investment fund, Seoul’s concerns over U.S. demands, and how the recent U.S.–Japan trade agreement has complicated Korea’s bargaining position. Wendy also unpacks the continued fallout from the Hyundai immigration raid, how visa bottlenecks are slowing new investment, and why both sides may need to abandon a “take it or leave it” posture to reach an agreement. The conversation also explores what message Seoul might deliver directly to Donald Trump at the APEC summit, which tariff concessions matter most for autos, semiconductors, and steel, and how the 2026 USMCA review could reshape trade dynamics across the Indo-Pacific. Finally, we discuss how shifting public opinion and growing emphasis on economic security and supply chains are redefining the U.S.–Korea alliance for a new era. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more!   Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst   [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Jeff Schott, Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, joins KEI President & CEO Scott Snyder to break down the challenges and opportunities in U.S.–Korea trade relations.   We discuss how U.S. tariff policy under the Trump administration has reshaped Korea’s auto exports and the U.S. Korea free trade agreement (KORUS FTA), the fallout from the Hyundai raid in Georgia, and what it means for South Korean investment in the United States. Jeff also explores opportunities for deeper cooperation in shipbuilding and LNG, Korea’s balancing act between Washington and Beijing, and how Seoul is weighing the benefits of joining the CPTPP alongside partners in the Asia-Pacific and Europe.   Finally, we look at what’s at stake for the future of U.S.–Korea economic ties and explain why durable, coordinated trade and investment policy is critical for both countries. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more!   Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst   [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Rachel Minyoung Lee, Senior Fellow at the Stimson Center’s Korea Program and 38 North, unpacks Kim Jong Un’s high-profile visit to Beijing in early September. This was Kim’s first multilateral gathering, aimed at showing the world he is a leader—not just a player—in an emerging Cold War dynamic between China, Russia, and North Korea on one side, and the U.S. and its allies on the other. We discuss how Kim sought propaganda wins ahead of a major political event in Pyongyang, his strengthening long-term relationship with Vladimir Putin, and the growing defense and munitions cooperation between North Korea and Russia. We also look at the quieter but more ambiguous ties between Kim and Xi Jinping, with their latest summit producing the vaguest readout yet. Rachel also breaks down North Korea’s effort to balance Beijing and Moscow for its own gain, Pyongyang’s role in the war in Ukraine, and why the future of inter-Korean relations looks increasingly bleak. Finally, we explore what to expect from the upcoming 9th Party Congress, how North Korea sets its long-term agenda, and why Pyongyang remains firmly anti-U.S.—but not necessarily anti-Trump. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Zack Cooper, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, unpacks the Trump administration’s national security priorities, which he groups into homeland defense and the Indo-Pacific. He weighs in on why he’s impressed with South Korea’s early moves under the Lee administration, but warns that Seoul may be overly optimistic about Washington’s expectations. Dr. Cooper also discusses Trump’s demands of allies to increase defense spending, the possibility of U.S. troop withdrawals from South Korea as leverage, and how extended deterrence guarantees could gradually weaken until Seoul offers more. The conversation also explores where North Korea sits on the U.S.-ROK priority list, how China factors into the Trump-Lee summit, and the future of OP-CON and strategic flexibility. Looking ahead at the summit in DC on August 25, Dr. Cooper explains why shipbuilding is a smart bet for President Lee to keep Washington engaged and invested in South Korea’s defense. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Dr. Hyo-young Lee, Associate Professor at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy and an expert in international trade and diplomacy, joins KEI President & CEO Scott Snyder for a detailed discussion of the recently announced U.S.–South Korea trade deal.   Our conversation explores how Korean negotiators navigated the pressure of earlier U.S. trade deals with Japan and the EU, and how Seoul secured a 15 percent reciprocal tariff agreement while protecting red-line sectors such as rice and beef. Dr. Lee also explains the significance of Korea’s $350 billion investment pledge, including the distinctive “Make America Shipbuilding Great Again” initiative, and what it reveals about Korea’s evolving economic strategy toward the United States.   We also discuss the sidelining of the KORUS FTA, the growing role of Korean conglomerates, emerging frictions over digital trade, and the risks of closely linking trade and security. With an upcoming summit between President Trump and President Lee expected in Washington, Dr. Lee offers insight into which issues are likely to be addressed by the two leaders and which should remain the focus of working-level discussions.   Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more content on U.S.–South Korea news, analysis, politics, and more.   Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Michael Beeman, former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Japan, Korea, and APEC, joins KEI President and CEO Scott Snyder to unpack what’s really driving U.S.–South Korea trade negotiations under President Donald Trump’s second term. Drawing from his time at USTR and insights from his book Walking Out: America’s New Trade Policy in the Asia-Pacific and Beyond, Dr. Beeman explains Trump’s 25% tariff rate threat on South Korea, why economic security and non-tariff measures dominate the White House agenda, and why he thinks South Korea is unlikely to escape a double-digit tariff rate—even after negotiations and even if newly elected President Lee Jae-myung holds a successful summit in Washington. The conversation touches on the growing use of Section 232 tariffs, the challenges of sectoral tariffs on autos, steel, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals, and what early trade deals with the UK and Vietnam signal for Korea. President Snyder and Dr. Beeman also discuss digital trade, country of origin rules, and how transshipment through China fits into the bigger picture. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! You can find Dr. Beeman’s book, Walking Out: America’s New Trade Policy in the Asia-Pacific and Beyond, here: https://www.amazon.com/Walking-Out-Americas-Policy-Asia-Pacific/dp/1931368740 https://www.sup.org/books/politics/walking-out A recording of KEI’s November 2024 event with Dr. Beeman is available here: https://www.youtube.com/live/8LTrlsvBuTo?si=elMGFBk7F4XtYhGM Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/ X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Dr. John Blaxland, Director of the Australian National University’s North America Liaison Office and an expert in international security and intelligence, joins KEI President & CEO Scott Snyder for a deep dive into the evolving Australia-South Korea relationship. The conversation covers Dr. Blaxland’s forthcoming article in Korea Policy, highlighting how Australia and South Korea are increasingly engaging in bilateral and multilateral cooperation with greater independence from the U.S. We also examine the growing defense-industrial ties between the two countries, the impact of the AUKUS agreement and its Pillar 2 technology-sharing scheme, and the strategic opportunities for deeper Australia-South Korea collaboration. Dr. Blaxland adds perspectives on political alignment, trade resilience, and the challenges of navigating transactional U.S. foreign policy. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/ X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.] ______ Eye on Korea is distributed under a CC BY-SA 4.0 License, which can be found at https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

In this episode of Eye on Korea, KEI President Scott Snyder sits down with former U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Philip Goldberg for a wide-ranging conversation on South Korea's domestic political transformation with the election of new president Lee Jae-myung, and its implications for foreign policy and U.S.-ROK relations. Ambassador Goldberg reflects on the final months of his tenure in Seoul, including the declaration of martial law and impeachment proceedings of former president Yoon Suk Yeol. Drawing on decades of diplomatic experience, Goldberg assesses the health of Korean democracy, the shifting dynamics of the U.S.-Korea alliance under new leadership in both countries, and the growing strategic tension between economic ties to China and security cooperation with the U.S. We discuss South Korea’s global rise in industries like semiconductors and EVs, the demographic and economic challenges ahead, and the evolving posture toward North Korea in the face of renewed ties between Pyongyang and Moscow. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.] ______ Eye on Korea is distributed under a CC BY-SA 4.0 License, which can be found at https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

In this episode of Eye on Korea, KEI President Scott Snyder speaks with Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute about how the U.S.-South Korea alliance might evolve in a second Trump administration and under new leadership in Seoul. Drawing from Cronin’s new report, Strategic Alignment in an Era of Uncertainty, the episode examines how the two allies could recalibrate defense cooperation, navigate shifting command structures, and manage extended deterrence in a more volatile security environment. Dr. Cronin outlines a series of policy recommendations focused on defense industrial cooperation, technological competitiveness, and evolving command structures, including the ongoing discussion around wartime operational control. He also addresses challenges related to extended deterrence and debates surrounding South Korea’s nuclear policy, as well as the future of the Nuclear Consultative Group and other bilateral coordination mechanisms. The episode also looks at the future of U.S.-Korea-Japan trilateral coordination in light of political transitions across all three countries. While recent progress has strengthened ties, upcoming anniversaries and unresolved historical issues could once again test the relationship. Cronin points to practical steps that sub-national actors in both countries can take to maintain momentum, regardless of political shifts at the top. Read Dr. Cronin's full report here: https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/media.hudson.org/Strategic+Alignment+in+an+Era+of+Uncertainty+Patrick+Cronin.pdf Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/ X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst  [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

KEI’s Director of Public Opinion and External Relations James Kim joins the show to speak about his recently published report, “Untethered Sentiments: How Politics, Visibility, Perception, and Demographic Differences Shape American Views on Foreign Investment and Trade.” Together with host and President Scott Snyder, the two dive into the report’s examination of sentiments in the United States around the changing landscapes of trade and direct foreign investment. From the report: Since his inauguration on January 20, the president has moved swiftly to sign numerous executive orders, including a sweeping new tranche of tariffs on key goods. Among them are 25 percent tariffs on steel and aluminum, auto tariffs, and the so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs targeting a wide swath of imports. Foreign multinational corporations have begun rerouting supply chains, building up inventories, and expanding manufacturing capacity in the United States—while others have pulled back investment plans due to heightened uncertainty. In this volatile environment, how the American public perceives trade, tariffs, and foreign investment is of critical importance. To assess these attitudes, the Korea Economic Institute of America (KEI), in partnership with YouGov, conducted an original survey from December 17, 2024, to January 2, 2025. The survey involved 1,734 respondents matched to a representative sample of 1,500 across ten states, selected to reflect variations in the levels of South Korean foreign direct investment (FDI) and ethnic Korean population. The study examined how state-level FDI visibility and individual perceptions influence attitudes toward trade and investment, employing both descriptive statistics and experimental methods, including image-based framing and discrete choice conjoint analysis. Read the full report here: https://keia.org/publication/untethered-sentiments-how-politics-visibility-perception-and-demographic-differences-shape-american-views-on-foreign-investment-and-trade/ Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/ X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

In this episode of Eye on Korea, we speak with Professor Barry Eichengreen (UC Berkeley) about the evolving role of the U.S. dollar in the global economy and the far-reaching implications of its potential decline as the world's reserve currency. Professor Eichengreen speaks to what this shift could mean for U.S. financial and geopolitical leverage, why Korea and other allies are navigating economic ties with growing caution, and how current U.S. trade and tariff policies are reshaping global financial norms. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/ X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Former Pentagon official Abraham Denmark joins the show to unpack the strategic future of AUKUS and what it means for South Korea. Drawing on his prominent role in the partnership’s rollout, Abraham explains why AUKUS is more than submarines — and how the pact’s second pillar, focused on advanced technologies like AI, cyber, and quantum, opens new doors for broader U.S. ally participation. We discuss what it would take for South Korea to collaborate more deeply on defense innovation, why shipbuilding and uncrewed systems are rising priorities, and how Seoul can position itself in a changing Indo-Pacific defense landscape. Denmark also shares insights on the challenge of adapting to a potentially transactional U.S. foreign policy, and why steady engagement will be key in a second Trump administration. Other topics include: foreign military sales reform, the growing strategic role of South Korea’s defense industry, and what a values-based alliance really looks like in an era of shifting geopolitics. Mr. Abraham M. Denmark is a Partner at The Asia Group (TAG), where he co-leads the Defense & National Security Practice and supports multiple country teams across TAG. With over 20 years of experience inside and outside of government, Mr. Denmark is a leading specialist in the security and geopolitical dynamics of the Indo-Pacific and on U.S. strategy and policy toward the region. Mr. Denmark most recently served as Senior Advisor to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III (2022-2024). In this role, Mr. Denmark led and coordinated the Department of Defense’s efforts to develop and implement the historic AUKUS partnership with Australia and the United Kingdom. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/ X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

KEI’s Fellow and Director of Academic Affairs Clint Work joins the show to speak about his recently published report, “Siloed No More: The U.S.-ROK Alliance and a Taiwan Conflict.” Accompanied by KEI’s Director of Communications Arius Derr, the two dive into the report’s examination of sentiments in both South Korea and the United States around a potential conflict over Taiwan, as well as the possibilities of how that conflict would play out. More about the report: this project was motivated by and builds upon earlier research tracing the evolution and apparent alignment of U.S. and South Korean signaling on Taiwan, wherein the South Korean government adopted a more outspoken position regarding “the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait” and framed it in increasingly expansive terms—as a regional and global issue yet also directly linked to the peace and stability of the Korean Peninsula. The previous research indicated the U.S.-ROK alliance faced a gap between its topline diplomatic rhetoric on Taiwan and its preparedness to navigate an actual conflict between the United States and China over Taiwan and the attendant risk of a simultaneous conflict on the Korean Peninsula. This project aimed to go beyond diplomatic rhetoric. Forty-two interviews were conducted from June 2024 to February 2025 in both Washington and Seoul. Most were in-person interviews with some conducted virtually or by written response via email. Through these interviews with U.S. and ROK current and former government officials, think tank experts, and academics—as well as open-source research—this project offers insight on the evolution and state of U.S.-ROK alliance discussions on a Taiwan conflict, key challenges obstructing such discussions, and critical variables or dynamics the alliance would have to navigate in the event of a conflict. Read the full report here: https://keia.org/publication/siloed-no-more-the-u-s-rok-alliance-and-a-taiwan-conflict/ Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/ X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

Former U.S. government official Don Graves joins the show to break down key issues in trade and investment, from cleantech and semiconductors to AI and robotics. He explains why these are “smart” investments for South Korea and what U.S. companies can unlock in the Indo-Pacific market through greater trade on the peninsula. We discuss the long-term impact of the CHIPS Act and how it’s making it easier to attract South Korean and other foreign companies to the U.S. Graves also analyzes why tariffs may be a useful tool when applied thoughtfully, how unpredictability could undercut South Korean investment, and what Hyundai’s massive new steel plant and LNG purchase commitments are redefining what it means to be “Made in America.” Other key topics include refinery capacity, and why the White House is right to be concerned about unfair Chinese trade practices—though a trade war isn’t the best way to respond. Plus, why the future of AI and quantum computing runs through South Korea and why neither the U.S. nor South Korea can fully leverage the gains from these technologies unless they are fully in sync. Don Graves served as the 19th Deputy Secretary of Commerce under the Biden administration, where he led policy development on a range of issues including national security, bilateral trade, industrial strategy, and commercial space development. Mr. Graves served as Economic Growth Coordinator for Puerto Rico and was a member of the Helsinki Commission. He is currently a fellow at the Georgetown University Institute of Politics and Public Service. Prior to his service in the Biden administration, Mr. Graves was the Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Responsibility and Community Relations at Key Bank. Like and subscribe to the Korea Economic Institute of America on YouTube for more U.S.-South Korea news, analysis, politics and more! Social Links: Website: https://keia.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/korea-economic-institute-of-america/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreaEconInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreaeconinst/ Twitter/ X: https://x.com/koreaeconinst [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

The U.S. shipbuilding industry is facing major challenges, but could South Korea be the key to revitalizing it? In this episode of Eye on Korea, we explore the growing collaboration between Korean and American shipbuilders, the role of AI and automation in naval production, and the legislative efforts that could reshape the future of naval defense manufacturing.   Our guest, Steve Brock, retired U.S. Navy Captain and former Senior Advisor to the Secretary of the Navy, shares his insights on how South Korea’s advanced shipbuilding expertise could help revitalize U.S. shipyards. He discusses the recent Philly Shipyard acquisition by Hanwha Ocean, the evolving role of submarines in national security, and the impact of AI-driven innovation on naval production. We also examine the challenges and opportunities that come with increased foreign involvement in U.S. defense manufacturing and what it means for the future of military readiness. Follow for more U.S.-Korea news and analysis! [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

In this episode of Eye on Korea, Ambassador Ahn Ho-Young, former South Korean Ambassador to the U.S., shares his insights on the evolving U.S.-Korea relationship during President Trump's second term. Drawing from his experience during the first Trump administration, Ambassador Ahn discusses how current policies may shape the alliance. Our discussion covers key challenges and opportunities, including trade tensions, security cooperation, and the broader geopolitical landscape. Ambassador Ahn examines the impact of recent tariffs, Korea's strategic investments in the U.S., and the importance of maintaining a "win-win" approach to economic and defense collaboration. We also explore Trump’s "peace through strength" doctrine and prospects for renewed diplomacy with North Korea. Like and subscribe for more U.S.-Korea news and analysis! [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

In this episode of Eye on Korea, we are joined by Wendy Cutler, Vice President of the Asia Society Policy Institute and a former senior U.S. trade negotiator. With extensive experience shaping U.S. trade policy, Wendy provides insights into the evolving economic relationship between the United States and Korea.   We examine how the Trump administration’s trade policies and tariffs will influence Korea’s economic landscape. Wendy also offers her perspective on the broader shifts in U.S. trade strategy and how they impact key sectors in both countries. We discuss potential areas for U.S.-Korea cooperation, the challenges facing Korean businesses, and what policymakers should consider as they navigate this changing environment.   Like and leave a review for more Korea news and analysis!   [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

This week's episode of Eye on Korea explores the evolving U.S.-Korea alliance and its implications for regional security and North Korea policy. Dr. Jung H. Pak, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, shares her expertise on North Korea’s cyber threats, the future of trilateral cooperation with Japan, and the broader Indo-Pacific security landscape. Dr. Pak offers her perspective on how the trade policies of both the Biden and Trump administrations, along with broader diplomatic and strategic shifts, have influenced U.S.-South Korea relations and could shape future U.S. policy in the region. Like and leave a review for more Korea news and analysis!   [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]

KEI is proud to debut Eye on Korea, a program designed to provide expert analysis on the most pressing issues shaping US-Korea relations. Today's episode highlights how the new US administration’s trade policies could reshape economic ties with South Korea. As former senior vice president for Asia at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Tami Overby brings decades of experience in trade negotiations, market access, and economic strategy. Her discussion will provide insights into potential policy shifts, trade barriers, and opportunities for strengthening bilateral economic cooperation. Like and leave a review for more Korea news and analysis! [KEI is registered under the FARA as an agent of the KIEP, a public corporation established by the government of the Republic of Korea. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.]