Global Scans · South Korea · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: South Korea may go nuclear if Trump cancels the missile deployment and leaves the country alone facing the North's threats. With the President facing an impeachment vote and mass demonstrations on the streets political and economic turmoil may follow. Chinese markets has already shaken South Korea, where central bankers downgraded their forecasts for economic growth.

• [New] By drawing from Europe's phased approach and South Korea's missile defence development experience, Canada could pursue a path that secures its sovereignty, reinforces NATO, and increases alliance credibility without aiming for unattainable absolute defence. Modern Diplomacy
• [New] In the medium term, a Canada-South Korea cooperation framework could be explored, adapting upper-tier missile defence concepts to Arctic operating conditions, mirroring the logic of the step-by-step approach of the EPAA-first acquiring limited capacity and later expanding layers. Modern Diplomacy
• [New] Under near-constant threat, South Korea developed a cost-effective multi-layered missile defence system, balancing US interoperability with domestic control and export viability. Modern Diplomacy
• [New] Investment confirmed by Kumho Tire in a new 5.3 million tyre plant in Hampyeong, South Korea, which will focus on performance car tyres for EVs and ICE vehicles. Tyrepress
• [New] Kim stipulated intercontinental ballistic missiles that could be launched from underwater and an expanded arsenal of tactical nuclear weapons, such as artillery and short-range missiles, capable of targeting South Korea. Al Jazeera
• [New] South Korea's auto giants see share prices soar after announcing major AI infrastructure plans, but tariff threats from the U.S. cast a shadow over future prospects. Grand Pinnacle Tribune
• [New] South Korea's 2026 Framework Act on Supply Chain Stabilization for Economic Security set a quantitative target to reduce import dependence on any single country for key items to below 50% by 2030. Information Technology and Innovation Foundation | ITIF
• [New] Any deficiencies are expected to be incorporated into DAXA's self-regulatory guidelines and could influence the next phase of cryptocurrency legislation in South Korea. TradingView
• [New] Japan and South Korea pursue alternative strategies including strategic reserves and battery recycling investments to reduce import vulnerability. Discovery Alert
• [New] The tariff-for-investment model is replicable; South Korea, India, and ASEAN should expect similar frameworks. The Rio Times
• [New] Through the partnership with South Korea, Canada plans to collaborate with South Korean automotive companies on domestic EV manufacturing projects. Mondaq
• [New] Kim Yo Jong warned against border infringements and called for stronger vigilance after South Korea expressed regret over drones entering North Korean airspace. The Asia Cable
• [New] Growth is expected to nearly double in 2026, driven largely by rising semiconductor demand linked to AI-related investment. / South Korea UPI
• [New] South Korea picked five teams to build a national foundation model by 2027. Get Down and Shruti
• [New] South Korea's bold move to introduce Sustainable Aviation Fuel by 2027 for international flights marks a crucial step in its commitment to reduce carbon emissions and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. VURDHAAN
• [New] OPCON transfer carries real risk: a potential reduction in the U.S. readiness posture and its commitment to defend the Korean Peninsula under the Mutual Defence Treaty as well as a consequent diminution of South Korea's value as a U.S. ally. The Diplomat
• [New] The launch system could fire rockets with an estimated range of 400 kilometers (250 miles), covering all of South Korea. Space War
• [New] Trump threatens 100% tariffs against Canada over China EV deal and hikes South Korea tariffs to 25%. CBT News | #1 Source for Automotive News & Dealership I
• [New] South Korea's interest in developing a nuclear-powered attack submarine reflects capability gaps in countering North Korea's evolving submarine-based nuclear threat. American Enterprise Institute - AEI

Last updated: 04 March 2026