Korean Monitor (3/2024). In March, medical trainees continued their protest, which sparked a crisis in the health service. The appointment of former Defense Minister Lee Jong-seop as ambassador received wide publicity despite the anti-corruption investigation conducted in his case. Internal politics focused on election campaigns related to the April parliamentary elections. In relations with Central and Eastern Europe, South Korea has focused on developing financial institutions to support South Korean companies in the region. In relations with North Korea, President Yoon Suk-yeol announced the need to prepare a new unification strategy that would take into account the protection of human rights. Download the entire March news with commentary here.
Korea Monitor (2/2024). In February, there was a pre-election reshuffle on the political scene - forming a coalition intended to constitute a third force against the two largest parties, which collapsed after 11 days. Support for President Yoon Suk-yeol has increased amid the government's tough stance against the doctors' strike and promises to improve regional development. Bilateral relations saw further development of strategic partnerships with the countries of the Middle East. Bulgaria expressed interest in purchasing Korean weapons. Inter-Korean relations remain tense - in February, the DPRK authorities focused on removing manifestations of the unification policy from public space and the media. Download the entire February news with commentary here.
Korea Monitor (1/2024). In early January, Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung was attacked by a knifeman. First lady Kim Keon-hee was at the center of a corruption scandal. New parties have appeared on the political scene, aiming to be the "third force" in the April elections. South Korea promoted its nuclear power plant technology in Central Europe. North Korea has intensified its hostile rhetoric and provocations. South Korea has raised the issue of human rights protection for people fleeing North Korea on the international stage. Download the entire January news with commentary here.
