3 chapters across the catalog
North Korea Free Trade and Vladivostok Pipeline
A new presidential proclamation regarding a free trade agreement with Korea is analyzed. The hosts theorize that this could open the door for a pipeline from Vladivostok to run through North Korea into South Korea, further isolating China from regional energy markets.
South Korea Free Trade and Foot-and-Mouth Disease
Following the finalization of a free trade agreement between the U.S. and South Korea, an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease has led to the culling of over one million head of Korean livestock. The hosts suggest the timing is suspicious, as the destruction of local cattle and pigs creates an immediate market for U.S. beef imports. This follows years of Korean resistance to American beef based on cultural traditions and safety concerns.
Massive riots in South Korea over the importation of American beef have threatened a major free trade agreement. Former US Ambassador Donald Gregg explains that the issue is deeply cultural, as Koreans are protective of their domestic agricultural traditions and the livelihoods of rural farmers. While the protests are framed around concerns over mad cow disease, they reflect broader sensitivities regarding national sovereignty and US influence.
