In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, co-hosts Jeongmin and John dive into the latest developments in South Korean politics and a tragic industrial accident.

The duo begins by discussing the main opposition Democratic Party’s recent victories in the tug-of-war over committee leadership and the party’s decision to weaken anti-corruption rules in its charter. They also touch on the confirmed frontrunners for the ruling People Power Party’s leadership race and their sudden shift to advocating nuclear armament on the 74th anniversary of the start of the Korean War.

Next, Jeongmin and John delve into the devastating lithium factory fire that occurred south of Seoul on Monday, resulting in the deaths of 23 people, mostly foreign workers. They explore the reasons behind the high number of casualties, the dangers associated with lithium batteries and similar accidents that have occurred elsewhere, such as the Tesla Megapack fires in Australia. The hosts also raise questions about the factory’s compliance with the Serious Accident Punishment Act and the application of this law to foreign workers.

Looking ahead, Jeongmin and John discuss the ongoing doctors’ strike and South Korea’s stance on potentially providing lethal weapons to Ukraine, despite public opposition.

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 June 27, 2024 

Audio edited by Joe Smith