This week, the Korea Pro team tackles a range of pressing issues. We start by examining the ongoing doctors’ strike and New Futures Party leader Lee Nak-yon’s strategic move toward the political center.

The episode also sheds light on what appears to be behind-the-scenes efforts for a compromise between the South Korean government and the Korean Medical Association. We delve into Lee Nak-yon’s efforts to position himself as a political centrist, spanning both domestic and international policy arenas.

Further, we discuss the Democratic Party’s internal conflicts and their potential impact on the party’s performance in the upcoming general elections. Lastly, we preview President Yoon Suk-yeol’s anticipated March 1 address and its possible implications.

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.

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

This episode was recorded on Feb. 28, 2024. 

Audio edited by Joe Smith