In this episode, John and Joon Ha break down the latest developments in South Korea.

First, they discuss reports that the U.S. is considering designating South Korea as a “sensitive country,” which could limit high-tech exports and tighten U.S. security controls on key industries. John explores how this move could disrupt South Korea’s semiconductor, AI and defense sectors and posits this move could be a trade negotiations tactic.

Next, they discuss U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest round of tariffs on steel and aluminum, which have hit South Korea hard. John explains how some in Seoul are downplaying these tariffs, which apply to every steel exporter, but that these tariffs may make South Korean exports less competitive than U.S. steel.

Then, Joon Ha analyzes the Constitutional Court’s decision to reject the impeachment of Board of Audit and Inspection Chair Choe Jae-hae and three prosecutors involved in the investigation of first lady Kim Keon-hee. He then explains how President Yoon Suk-yeol’s release from custody has galvanized protesters on both sides of the aisle as the Constitutional Court is expected to rule on Yoon’s impeachment in the coming days.

In the week ahead, John notes that all eyes will be on the Constitutional Court as Yoon and the rest of the country await his judgment.

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, March 13, 2025.

Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson