In this episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, Jeongmin Kim and Joon Ha delve into major political developments in South Korea, starting with defense minister nominee Ahn Gyu-baek’s comments on completing the transfer of wartime operational control from the U.S. within five years. The remarks drew swift denial from the presidential office.

The hosts then turn to the turbulent cabinet confirmation hearings. Unification minister nominee Chung Dong-yang was criticized for avoiding the term “main enemy” in reference to North Korea, while the gender minister nominee faced scrutiny over past staff treatment and a cautious approach to anti-discrimination and sexual consent laws. The education minister nominee was also questioned over plagiarism allegations related to student work.

On the diplomatic front, the podcast explores the administration’s announcement of special envoys to 14 countries, including a former Doosan chief named as the U.S. envoy after a previous pick raised concerns. The episode also looks ahead to key trilateral meetings, pending confirmations, Samsung Chairman Lee Jae-yong’s legal developments and the upcoming rollout of supplementary cash vouchers.

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, July 17, 2025.

Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson