In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin and John dive into President Lee Jae-myung’s escalating confrontation with major firms after a series of deadly workplace accidents, with POSCO and SPC under fresh scrutiny. They examine what the government’s shift toward aggressive administrative penalties means for business.

The hosts also break down why inflation remains volatile despite a steady consumer price index and why South Korea’s export outlook is darkening amid U.S. tariffs.

They then turn to the upcoming Ulchi Freedom Shield drills — including the decision to postpone half of the planned field exercises — and preview next week’s ROK-Vietnam summit and President Lee’s Aug. 15 Liberation Day address.

About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly 15-minute conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, 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, Aug. 7, 2025.

Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson