Seoul is navigating multiple diplomatic and economic pressures: North Korean soldiers fighting in Ukraine are straining US-South Korea relations, the US is alleging trade bias, and a taxi overcharging scandal has drawn international attention. Domestically, the new mayor is prioritizing youth and housing amid ongoing trade tensions with the Trump administration.
·North Korean POWs enlisted in Ukraine are creating friction between Seoul and Washington over diplomatic protocol
·Seoul denies US House accusations of systematically favoring Korean companies over American firms
·A Taiwanese tourist's $445 taxi fare from Seoul to Incheon sparks debate over transport pricing transparency
·Trump White House claims South Korea is unfairly targeting Coupang; Seoul disputes the characterization
·New Seoul mayor begins fifth term with emphasis on affordable housing and youth employment initiatives
drawn from South China Morning Post, The Korea Herald, The Korea Times, Weverse · updated 2h ago