In a significant development, justice minister Han Dong-hoon — one of President Yoon Suk-yeol’s closest aides — resigned to become the ruling People Power Party’s interim leader.

The episode examines the challenges and potential repercussions of Han’s new role and the quickly shifting dynamics within the two major political parties. Additionally, the discussion touches upon the peculiarities of South Korean confirmation hearings, which offers a glimpse into the country's unique political culture of scrutinizing the morality of the candidates and their family members over policy capabilities.

This week’s episode features the following members of the Korea Pro team:

Editorial Director Jeongmin Kim (@jeongminnkim)

Editor John Lee (@koreanforeigner)

About the podcast: The KOREA PRO Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Jeongmin Kim and John Lee, diving deep into the most pressing stories shaping South Korea — and dissecting the most complicated ones for professionals monitoring South Korean politics, diplomacy, culture, society and technology.

Stay informed, stay ahead, and never miss a beat on Korean affairs that matter. Uploaded every Friday.

This episode was recorded on Dec. 21, 2023.

Audio edited by Lina Park