Korea Pod with Henry Shinn

UEFA Champions League! 손흥민 set to make history! U-20 World Cup: Can Korea make it to the knockoff stages? KBO: Samsung Lions' 박한이 abruptly retires after DUI LPGA US Women's Open preview NBA FINALS! Toronto Raptors vs Golden State Warriors. Big Yoo is not objective about this series! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

KBO update: clear separation between the top 5 and bottom 5; Doosan Lotte manager controversy MLB: how are the Koreans holding up? FIFA U20 World Cup: 이강인 watch! Men's Hockey World Championship! Random Rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

손흥민 scores 2 goals to in Tottenham Hotspur's quarterfinal win over Manchester City. Too early for GOAT conversation? KBO updates after a few weeks into the new season. How are the MLB Koreans 류현진, 추신수, 강정호, 최지만, and 오승환 faring so far? Random Rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

KBO season has begun! Record crowds! Who looks good so far? MLB opening day upon us! Korean players preview National football team sweeps South American visitors. Random Rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

KBO preview and tidbits: 2019 season outlook and 임창용 retiring National football team roster released ahead of March friendlies: is 이강인 the next golden boy? Random Rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

-KBO gearing up for new season; Josh Lindblom getting screwed by Lotte -K-League also ready to kickoff; National team updates -MLB Korean stars hope for success Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

- Korea-IOC meeting: Seoul chosen; Joint hosting bid possible for 2032? - Inter-Korean teams for field hockey, rowing, basketball and judo for Tokyo 2020 - Baseball season is almost here! Plus Premier 12 tourney draw: Korea draws Cuba, Australia, Canada - Random Rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

- 100th episode! Thoughts on the milestone - Asian Cup: Korea loses to Qatar in the quarterfinals; the 6-decade drought continues - SUN is out and MOON is in; National baseball team has new manager in 김경문 - Pyeongchang Olympics 1- year anniversary: a look back - Random rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

- Can Korea break a 49-year drought and finally win the AFC Asian Cup in Dubai? - Short-track speedskater Shim Suk-hee detailing horrific sexual and physical abuse at the hands of her coach. Country in an uproar. - Random Rants: check out Big Yoo's new sports blog! https://thelongdistancefan.blogspot.com/ Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Top issues of the past year: 1) Inter-Korean Peace Process 2) #MeToo in Korea 3) Ruling Party destroys conservatives in the June local elections 4) Continuing 적폐청산; rooting out corrupt conservative elements 5) Economic concerns/real estate frenzy Final thoughts on the future of this podcast. Thanks for listening guys! Happy New Year! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Pyeongchang/ Inter-Korean sports. World Cup recap. Asian Games recap. KBO season wrap. MLB Koreans review. Thx for listening!!! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The ageless 이동국 signs up for one more year in the K-League. Still going strong at 40! KBO awards: controversy over Doosan's 김재환 winning MVP due to past doping allegations Random rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

SK Wyverns are the KBO champs! A recap. Team Korea baseball manager 선동렬 calls it quits amid scandal. 류현진 picks up his qualifying offer. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Surprisingly close KBO series between the SK Wyverns and Nexen Heroes goes down to the wire. Post-mortem on the LA Dodgers and 류현진's flameout in the World Series. What next for the MLB Korean players? Random Rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Tough outing for Ryu Hyun-jin in Game 2 of the Dodgers-Red Sox WS. Will he get another chance to pitch again in the series? KBO playoffs: SK Wyverns vs Nexen Heroes. Who will get the chance to face the Doosan Bears in the Korea Series? Random Rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

KBO playoff preview: Lotte-Kia still battling for the final playoff spot. MLB NLCS: Can Ryu pitch the Dodgers in the World Series? Random Rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

류현진 Game 1 starter for LA Dodgers in the NLDS KBO playoff race LPGA International Crown update Random rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

President Moon and IOC head Thomas Bach discuss SK-NK joint Olympic bid KBO heading to the playoffs: Doosan clinches 1st place; can anyone beat them? MLB: 류현진 making it impossible to take him off the Dodgers playoff roster Random rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Most Koreans are cheered by the warming ties between the two countries. But the rest of the world is focused on denuclearization. Can President Moon Jae-in engineer a solution to all these things? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Inter-Korean summit sports related updates KBO updates; Bong Jung-keun retirement MLB: 류현진 pitches Dodgers into playoff contention; 최지만 double digits homers LPGA tourney in Korea Random rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The famous singer was accused of beating up her boyfriend after he tried to break up with her. She claims it was a two-way fight and produced photos and medical reports as proof. Public opinion has swayed wildly in this he-said, she-said affair. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Housing prices have been rising at an insane rate and people who want affordable places to live in Seoul are fed up. Will the recent government attempts to cool the market have any effect? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

National football team friendlies: so far, so good for Bento debut. KBO stuff. MLB: Ryu Hyun-jin meh in his road start. Further debate on military exemptions for sports stars. Random rants. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The famed restaurant giant is facing criticism for ordering the shutdown of a Korean franchise with no appeals system in Korea. The only legal recourse for the franchisee is in the US. Unfair tactics or unreasonable demands by the Korean? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The Liberty Korea Party with another gaffe saying young adults are selfish for not wanting to have kids. Millenials do not take kindly to 김성태 and 김학용. Why is the LKP shooting itself in the foot? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

An apartment resident in Songdo, angered over parking violation stickers placed on her windshield, blocked the parking entrance to her apartment for days, inconveniencing fellow residents. The national outrage was breathtaking to behold. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Big Yoo returns and so does the sports pod! Mega overview of the games. Disappointing medal tally, but some bright spots for the future. Inter-Korean team performed well. Men's baseball and football winning gold despite lethargic group stage efforts. But huge controversy over military exemption overshadowed everything. Random rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

숙명여고 (Sookmung Girls' High School) is one of the elite schools in the country. A high-ranking teacher allegedly help his twin daughters attending the same school to improve their rankings dramatically. Big education scandal! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

황민, the husband of the renowned actress, had an alcohol level twice the legal limit when the crash took place. Two students of 박해미 were killed. 황민 is being villified, but 박해미 has handled the tragic situation the best she can. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

한승희's Kangwon Land scandal proves even your heroes are vulnerable to a steep fall from grace. Big shock and disappointment by the public for a man once considered to be one of the "good guys" in the corruption-laden Korean judiciary. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Former military dictator 전두환 stands trial in a Gwangju court over libel charges from false statements in his memoirs denying a helicopter attack on civilians during the infamous Gwangju massacre. His side claims he suffers from Alzheimer's disease and the Gwangju court won't give him a fair trial. The public is not buying it. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

With 이해찬 (Lee Hae-chan) elected chairman of the ruling Democratic Party, along with recently elected chairman 정동영 (Chung Dong-yong) of the minor 민주평화당, 김병준 (Kim Byong-joon) heading the emergency committee of the conservative 자유한국당, and 손학규 (Sohn Hak-kyu) the favorite to lead the minor 바른미래당, the grizzled old veterans of politics are making a comeback and dominating Korean politics. What are the pros and cons? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

A messy sordid affair: Entertainer LJ (엘제이) drops photos on social media alleging a long-term affair with former T-ara singer and actress Hwayoung (류화영). Hwayoung initially denies the affair and then admits a brief fling with LJ, but that she ended the relationship after creepy violent and stalker-like behavior. LJ responds that it's all a lie and he was the victim. What a mess Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Disgraced former president Park Geun-hye is a no-show for her appeals trial. The court rules her jail term to be extended to 25 years and slaps on additional guilty verdicts, specifically pertaining to bribery allegations against Samsung. Will this affect Samsung vice-chairman 이재용's legal fate? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

이해찬 (Lee Hae-chan), 김진표 (Kim Jin-pyo) and 송영길 (Song Yong-gil) vie to take over the reins of the party ahead of crucial parliamentary elections next year. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The independent probe in the online-rigging blogger Druking and his links to South Gyeongsang governor 김경수 (Kim Kyoung-soo) has not produced a "smoking gun" Is this investigation being politicized? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

As BMWs continue to burn on the road, public outrage over the situation heats up. Who's to blame for this dangerous debacle? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The former Chungcheong governor was found not guilty of sexual assault against his former secretary 김지은. The polarizing reactions to this verdict threaten to exacerbate gender tensions and deals a blow to the wider #MeToo movement. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Shoo is alleged to have borrowed hundreds of millions of Won to feed a gambling addiction at the local casinos. Her case highlights the latest in a string of Korean celebrities who have been caught up in gambling scandals. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Most progressives support the fight for gender equality. But is Womad subverting that effort by being portrayed as the female version of Ilbe? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Asian Games overall medal outlook/ preview the major team sports Basketball, Football, Baseball/ Big Yoo's overall thoughts before heading to Jakarta MLB: Ryu Hyun-jin getting close to return/ Oh Seung-hwan getting a save for Colorado KBO: LG Twins reeling. Big Yoo Curse?!? Random Rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Will the former aide to progressive icon and late President Roh Moo-hyun be able to rescue the Liberty Korea Party and regain the public trust to become a viable political entity? His long festering personal political ambitions and ambiguous ideological principles may prove to be insurmountable. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The Shinil Group is under investigation for defrauding investors after claiming they found the sunken Russian ship Donskoi purportedly carrying 150 TRILLION won in gold. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Asian Games updates: Unified teams taking shape; substance over style? Dragon Boats named after Korean rivers Asian Games football: Son Heung-min will skip future national team events to make up for participating in Jakarta. Keeper Jo Hyun-woo looking to continue his excellent play from the World Cup K-League: Matches will kick off at 8PM, a delay to mitigate the brutal heat in Korea KBO: Doosan on a record pace of winning. Samsung actually in playoff contention?? The entire country is Coors Field as homers are blasted out in droves. MLB: Oh Seung-hwan actually keeping hitters quiet as a new Rockie. Choo showing off his power. Ryu to return for the home stretch? Random Rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Police have found the body believed to be a vacationing woman missing for close to a week. The nation is obsessed with this tragedy and wondering why and how this woman met her tragic fate. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

After 67 page martial law document is released by the Blue House, more controversy ensues, including finger-pointing among defense officials and allegations of wiretapping former President Roh Moo-hyun. Time to abolish the DSC? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Many coffee shop and potential customers are put off by laptop wielding hipsters who buy a 3,000 won coffee and park themselves at 4-seat tables for hours on end. Is the customer always right, or is this a breach of etiquette? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Asian Games- North Korean athletes arriving Sunday for joint training Asian Games- baseball players on the mend Asian Games- football tournament re-draw Oh Seung-hwan traded to the Colorado Rockies Men's football team coaching search narrowed down to 3 candidates Random rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Bombshell report from SBS' 그것이알고싶다 alleges Gyeonggi governor Lee Jae-myung has links to crime bosses dating back to before and after he was mayor of 성남. Another witch hunt against this fiery populist politician, or is there something there? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Progressive icon and Justice Party lawmaker 노회찬 found dead in apparent suicide. A brief look at his life and legacy. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The recently re-elected 박원순 fulfills a campaign promise to live among the commoners in a tiny rooftop apartment in one of the poorest areas of Seoul (강북구 삼양동 옥탑방). What can we expect? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Figure skater Dennis Ten murder Inter-Korean table tennis updates 박인비 to skip tourney in Korea Choo produces in first All-Star game with streak still intact KBO second half outlook/storylines Random rants: World Cup recap, MLB second half storylines/ Machado/racist Hader, KAWHI GOES TO T-DOT!!!, and more

A daycare center is under fire after a young girl was found dead in a shuttle bus in the sweltering heat, 7 hours after anyone noticed she was missing. An outraged nation asks: how did this happen?!? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The 19th Seoul Queer Culture festival rekindles a debate in the country between advocates for LGBT rights and the regressive forces in Korea opposed to equality for 성소수자 (sexual orientation minorities). Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The Moon administration searches for a middle ground in raising the minimum wage while breaking its campaign pledge of 10,000/hr. Labor and business owners both upset over the situation. Who's right? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

IKON's hit song "Love Scenario" or "사랑을했다" is being banned in some schools after it become an "IKON"-ic anthem among young kids. Logical move to prevent exposure to age-inappropriate lyrics? Or is this censorship run amok? Let kids be kids! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The head of the modeling agency accused by famous YouTuber 양예원 of coercion and sexual harassment commits suicide. Public anger and backlash against Yang and others supporting her. Fears that this could be a setback to the overall #MeToo movement in Korea Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Fiftieth episode! As imported beers gain market share, domestic beer companies cry foul over unfair tax laws. Proposed changes could jack up imported beer prices, meaning the uber-popular "4 cans for 10,000 won" deals at convenience stores could be a thing of the past. Sad! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Explosive allegations against the 기무사 (Defense Security Comand) division of the military for drafting plans to impose martial law against peaceful candlelight protesters angered over then President Park Geun-hye's corrupt government. How close were we to another military dictatorship? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Inter-Korean basketball friendly in Pyongyang World Cup updates: previewing the quarterfinals; Shin Tae-yong officially a candidate to remain national team coach despite mixed reviews on World Cup performance KBO All-Star starters vote results MLB: Choo Shin-soo continuing his torrid hitting Random rants: NBA free agency, NHL stuff, other MLB news Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

A look at the nationwide backlash against refugees from Yemen seeking asylum in Korea. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Recent court decision mandates the military provide alternative "civilian" service programs for people who refuse to serve over moral or religious grounds. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

World Cup: Korea crashes out of the group stages in the best way possible with a 2-0 win over defending champs and world #1 Germany. A deep dive into Korea's roller-coaster tournament. KBO: illegal trade probe findings, and former Dodger Scott Van Slyke signs with Doosan MLB: Choo Shin-soo on fire, Oh Seung-hwan starting fires on the mound Random rants: NHL and NBA free agency! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

After the passing of 김종필, here's an assessment of the polarizing opinions of the "Kingmaker" JP's political career, the last surviving member of the "3 Kims". Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

With a virtual wipeout of the 자유한국당(LKP) in these past local elections, the conservatives are in disarray and struggling to regain public support. What is ailing the nation's former dominant political force? What can they do to become a viable opposition voice in today's Korean political landscape? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The ruling Democratic party in a near sweep. Surprisingly high turnout (60.2%) and the voters went largely blue. Who were the big winners and losers? What does this mean for the political landscape going forward? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

An overview of the meeting between Donald Trump and 김정은 and an assessment of their signed agreement. Where do we go from here? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Because summit and local elections are back-to-back, there's not enough oxygen left in the room to cover all the issues. Nevertheless the local races have some compelling elements. This is a look at what to look out for on the eve of the big election day. NK-US summit post-mortem coming soon! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

World Cup final preps in Austria. Tuneup match against Bolivia results in 0-0 draw. But coach 신태용 projecting confidence. Any tricks up his sleeve? Does it matter? More potential KBO scandal. This time match-fixing rearing its ugly head again. 이영하 of Doosan named. Appropriate to out him? Murky mafia ties with gambling. MLBer Choo Shin-soo on a hot streak. 22 straight games reaching base. Oh Seung-hwan getting battered. Kang Jung-ho tearing up the minors and staying sober! Random rants: NHL has a new champ! NBA set to crown their champs any day now. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Continuous salacious accusations against 경기 governor candidate 이재명 and his alleged affair with actress 김부선 as early voting begins. Even popular novelist 공지영 getting involved. Druking special counsel officially gets its lead investigator 허익범. Controversy over his involvement with the radical "New Right" coalition. Will he lead a fair probe? Growing calls to include the conservative GNP/Saenuri online manipulation allegations in the special probe. Boomerang effect for the opposition in trying to exploit the Druking affair. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Hankyoreh reporting on years-long massive online news manipulation scheme by the conservatives that dwarfs the Druking affair they've been trying to exploit. LKP just can't buy a break in the pre-election polling as early voting is set to begin for the local elections. Ahn Cheol-soo living up to his "초딩" image in clumsy attempt to field unified candidacy for Seoul mayor. Is the locale for the big meet between Trump and Kim Jong-un gonna be at Shangri-la or Sentosa? A 9AM start for the summit?? What does that imply? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Trump says summit is back on. Are we sure? How optimistic should we be? Campaigning for local elections officially underway. Taegu mayoral candidate 권영진 supposedly attacked by female protester. False flag? Consumer outrage over 2000 won delivery charge for chicken. But franchisees enjoying the extra profits. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

KBO: Nexen pay-for-play trade scandal. Existential crisis for the heroes? KIA foreigners struggling. World Cup D-14: Two weeks to go. Promising friendly result against Honduras. 이승우 inspiring fans and his U-23 young teammates. Random rants: NHL and NBA finals hot takes! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

BTS and its ARMY celebrate historic Billboard milestone. What's the secret to their success? Former Supreme Court Chief Justice Yang Sung-tae accused of massive corruption and subverting the rule of law. 12 parliamentary seats up for grabs in by-elections coinciding with the June 13 local elections. Songpa and Nowon races embroiled in controversy. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Schizophrenic volatile day-by-day changes to the engagement process with North Korea and Donald Trump's ever changing moods. The ruling party in the driver's seat a little more than 2 weeks away from the June 13th local elections. Popular YouTuber Yang Ye-won mired in controversy over sexual harassment allegations. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

KBO updates: peeing on your hand??/and disturbing sexual assault allegations involving Nexen players/KBO games to be broadcast in Taiwan Korean baseball team to play in Australian league Speedskater and gold medalist Lee Seung-hoon suspected of physically abusing teammates World Cup injuries (Big Yoo curses 권창훈), team putting on a brave face Park Inbee still atop the LPGA rankings; wins an excavator?? Jeong Hyun skips 2nd straight ATP tourney w/ injury; will also miss French Open Random Rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

A look at Roh Moo-hyun's life and legacy on the 9th anniversary of his passing. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

KAI link to Michael Cohen is overlooked story in the Korean press What is Korea Aerospace Industries? Was involved in big scandals in the recent past If there is a definitive link between KAI and the pay-for-play in regards to a $16.3 billion joint government bid with Lockheed Martin, could be a big problem for both Trump and KAI Is there any potential liability for the Moon government? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

KBO: 2-team battle at the top, injuries, return of Yoon Suk-min, 박건우/양의지 celebration mishap World Cup roster: not an awe-inspiring lineup but Big Yoo sees some hope w 권창훈 and 이승우! Unified Korea teams: likely only 2 unified teams at the Asian games Men's hockey relegated after Worlds Random rants Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Still a lot of bickering over details in the National Assembly despite agreeing to a Druking special counsel probe and supplementary budget. Jeju Governor Won Hee-ryong punched by protester during a debate. It's a neck and neck race for the governorship. Differing media perspectives and Korea and the US over North Korea throwing cold water over the general good vibes recently. May 18th Gwangju uprising. Still some unanswered questions and issues unresolved. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Polls look good for ruling party. Ahead everywhere except TK region Opposition can't find traction with their negative tactics Potential regional realignment in Yongnam region North Korea summit effect looms large, could change the dynamics What can the conservatives do to pull of a miracle comeback? Stop the commie baiting! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Unified Korean Table Tennis wins bronze. Can they be competitive? Tourney in Pyongyang upcoming. Asian Games unified Korean teams discussions heat up. Pros and cons Men's hockey struggles at the world championships. World Cup football injury woes. Park Sung-hyun moves up the rankings in the LPGA MLB: Ryu Hyun-jin out until the All-star break. Dodgers reeling. Oh Seung-hwan may close for the Blue Jays. Random Rants: Toronto Raptors owned by Lebronto! Time to tear it down? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

It's been one year since President Moon was elected into office. Swept into power as the leading figure in the "candlelight revolution" Won a landslide victory, nearly doubling the support for Hong Joon-pyo and Ahn Cheol-soo Came in with high expectations, met some, fell short or incomplete in others. Strengths: foreign policy/diplomacy/inter-Korean ties, getting rid of the old-guard corruption. Potential for lasting peace on the peninsula could be his biggest historical accomplishment. But that story is yet to be written. Incompletes/disappointments: certain appointments, economic policies, comity with the opposition. Ends the 1st year with record approval ratings and popularity. Unsustainable? Still much work to be done. Biggest accomplishment: a shift from the past lack of empathy(불통) to a more communicative style of governing involving the people(소통). Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Opposition LKP Floor Leader 김성태 on a hunger strike demanding a "Druking" special probe. Met with lots of derision and trolling from the public. Hunger strikes have a long and somewhat noble history in Korean politics. This falls short of that ideal. Kim attacked by a rogue individual on the steps of the National Assembly. LKP is trying to milk this for all it is worth. Claims there was a wider organizational "terrorist" attack planned on the LKP. Refusing to open parliamentary session to pass crucial bills including the supplementary budget, revised broadcasting act and ratifying the inter-Korean Panmunjom declaration. Ultimatum to ruling party to accept a special counsel bill with no pre-conditions, or parliament will remain shut down. The ruling party made a big concession on the Druking issue, but the opposition isn't willing to compromise. It's a game of chicken where the LKP has all the risk for very dubious rewards. There's a political strategy here somewhere, but it's hard to see it. Local elections are looking bleaker for the LKP and other conservatives. Lots of political headwinds. guys like 홍준표, 조원진 keep putting their foot in their mouths. Candidates running in the election are distancing themselves from the party. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

KBO - NC Dinos' league-worst bullpen got even worse with closer 임창민's injury - Lotte moving up the standings - Crazy dispute between song rights-holders and teams over player's cheer anthems. Could have severe impact on fan culture and overall league interest. MLB - Ryu Hyun-jin groin injury - Oh Seung-hwan pitching well. Closer Roberto Osuna is not! FIFA World Cup update - No 이동국 on the roster? PGA - YE Yang looks to continue his winning ways playing here in Korea Inter-Korean sports - Table Tennis poised to field a unified team at Asian Games? - Football not so enthusiastic. Lots of potential upcoming headaches for Big Yoo! Random rants- NBA Playoffs Raptors vs Cavs! Deja vu all over again? Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Bombshell Dispatch investigative report linking JYP to the Salvation Sect cult. Salvation Cult linked to the company that owned the ill-fated Sewol Ferry. JYP has continuously denied claims he was involved with 구원파. His wife is the niece of the Salvation sect leader. Stock prices of JYP has plummeted. Allegations also swarm around 배용준/Bae Yong-joon. Cults and their wider influence are a problem in Korea. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

The entire Cho family that owns Korean Air is in some legal hot water including 조현민, 조현아, mom 이명희 and even dad chairman 조양호 The LKP will not let the 드루킹/김경수 issue die. Doubling down on special counsel demand. LKP's election campaign slogan is "나라를 통째로 넘기시겠습니까?" "Are you going to give the entire country to the leftists?" Bizarre LKP controversy with campaign logo song. Using the popular children's "상어가족/Shark Family" melody. Threat of lawsuit by the publishing company. LKP is doubling down using it claiming they have permission. Not a winning strategy. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

Lots of punditry already from international/western media. Focus on the domestic reaction. Recap of highlights: - 김정은 inviting 문재인 to briefly step across the border - General cordial atmosphere. 김정은 using honorific to the much older 문재인 - Wives also had good chemistry despite age difference. - most interesting aspect of the summit was the "midday walk" and one-on-one convo Domestic reaction: - as expected, overwhelmingly positive. conservative/progressive press focused on different aspects of the summit - lots of emotional/tearful reactions from the public. surreal to see the two leaders together hugging it out and generally getting along. 김정은 being humanized too much? - optimism abounds for a real settlement to the nuclear issue, peace treaty and eventual confederation/reunification despite different interpretations to the joint statement 판문점 선언 Political reaction: - Ruling 민주 party obviously very effusive. 3 minor opposition parties also to varying degrees positive about the summit results. - Main opposition LKP/자한당 find themselves boxed into political bind. Need to keep their ultra-right 태극기 base. But that will never exceed 20%. 나경원 "어처구니가 없다" controversy, 홍준표 "위장평화쇼" comments met with huge backlash. But also upset they weren't invited to dinner gala with 김정은. 바른미래 minor conservative party sees an opportunity to usurp the LKP. But can't blame the LKP as they have no cards to play. What happens next: - upcoming 김정은/Trump summit will determine if all of the progress made in the 남북 summit will come to fruition. - because of the timing of that summit, the "peace" frame with North Korea will continue being a huge issue, which bodes well for government/ruling party in upcoming local elections Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

KBO- Young closers doing well. Overlooked Sosa of LG Twins, the best foreign pitcher. SK-Doosan battle. 함덕주 being overworked?? Teams bunched up. Even Samsung just a few games out of playoff contention. Lotte finally out of the cellar. LPGA- Inbee Park world #1 again despite losing in the final round. Asian Games- Marine boy Park Tae-hwan tries to capture his past glory FIFA World Cup D-50 countdown Random rants- Leafs game 7! NBA playoffs see some series end (Bron is GOAT), dogfights in others (Bron is GOAT). Dodgers still suck. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1 http://koreapod.libsyn.com

South and North Korea meet for the 3rd time! What to expect:

Meticulous to-the-second planning for all the logistics of the summit. - from the cameras, staging, seating, menu a careful eye placed on optics and symbolism. one funny side note: Japan is pissed about a Dokdo-shaped dessert. Some expert trolling by the Blue House. High expectations set for the results of this summit. Too high? - some sort of statement on denuclearization and a declaration of peace expected. - reactions from Washington and Trump will definitely be kept in mind when drafting the statement Domestic reaction will be interesting - opposition/LKP already voicing skepticism, expected to be mealy-mouthed about the positive results. Chairman Hong already says this is a ruse to prop up a collapsing NK regime - overwhelming public support and optimism for the summit. Moon and 청와대 will pull out all the stops to make sure they don't disappoint. - afterwards, the ball will be in Trump's court. More on the summit after it finishes! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1

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1) The 야당(opposition) looks hell bent on getting a 특검 (special counsel) probe on the 드루킹 affair. Media feeding frenzy on Druking, his group 경공모, and lawmaker 김경수. After much consternation, Kim is deciding to run for 경남 governor in the June elections. He apparently was set to drop out, not wanting to burden the 문재인 administration and his ruling party, but the powers that be convinced him to fight the good fight. His reputation as a clean, soft-spoken "nice guy" seems to belie the strange firestorm he's been engulfed in. There seems to be a "try hard" atmosphere with the race for scoops in this case. Similar to the 최순실 scandal and various scoops. Everyone looking for a "tablet PC" smoking gun. Hesitate to call this "fake news" and put on a red MAGA hat, but stuff just doesn't add up. The controversy and allegations just don't appear to be organic. Police are pressured to be "tough" now that they've been criticized for being slow to investigate, which is compounding the confusion and the drip-drip of details related to the case. One media outlet is now in big trouble for surreptitiously sneaking out a tablet PC and usb drive from the publishing company linked to Druking. Also been found that Druking sent threatening messages to 김경수 just before getting arrested. 3 opposition parties (minus 정의당) trying to put a vote to the floor on 특검. Blue House and 김경수 says bring it on. Ruling 민주당 party says no go. Maybe a wider more comprehensive probe looking at ALL online manipulation on Naver would be the best solution. But the opposition will never go for it. Is it really realistic that Druking was the ONLY guy with an online brigade and eventually a macro software system that attempted to manipulate public opinion? They point to one article brigaded by Druking's minions in regards to 안철수's "MB avatar" narrative. Out of thousands and thousands of similar articles that went viral around that time. Plus the "MB avatar" meme had been ongoing for years before 드루킹's alleged involvement. Is it possible that 드루킹 was the SOLE individual responsible for all the suspected online manipulation going on in Naver's news portal (most of the fishy ones being strange upvotes and comments in favor of the conservatives). Common sense says no. Some suggestions to fix the problem include re-instating real-name commenting, banning all comments, using a Google News type system for "out links". But all have their pros and cons and online ad revenue models preclude the portals from agreeing to some of those measures. However, online manipulation is real and needs to be fixed. The ideal environment is an organic, reasoned discussion of relevant news stories important to the people. But maybe the best solution is to open up the Pandora's box (Naver's servers) and crack down on the illegal bots/brigades. It'll be messy, but may be the only fix. Lots of people agitating for it. Again if THAT happens, the opposition should probably be "careful what they wish for." 2) So how does that explain the political battle brewing right now. Why are they opposition parties, particularly the LKP, going to the mattresses over this relatively weak 드루킹/김경수 issue? Do they REALLY think this is a severe national crisis where the nation's democratic integrity is at stake? Are these tent rallies really moving the people? 홍준표 and 안철수 are both questioning the legitimacy of the last presidential elections and are claiming to be victims of 드루킹's dastardly deeds. Seems to be falling on deaf ears. Both candidates both received around half the votes that 문재인 won in the elections (about 40 to 20, respectively). Seems more like a cop-out or excuse for their electoral failings. Most reasonable minded people would believe Moon would have won the elections with or without the help of 드루킹. So as much as the LKP, Bareun Mirae would like to make it so, this "scandal" doesn't rise to the level of the 최순실 affair where 10 years of deep-seated corruption came to the fore and the public just had enough. Polling also suggests the public isn't buying it. Majority oppose a 특검 on this issue. Just a third support. So why would these smart politicians be crusading on what likely is a losing issue? The answer is, they have no other bullets in their arsenal. Moon's popularity after a slight dip, is rising again, despite 김기식 and 드루킹. The inter-Korean summit is overriding any negative sentiment. The ruling party is also gaining in popularity despite the controversies. It shows the public is more savvy about what the media tries to shape as a narrative. Years ago, 조중동 and other outlets had the power to drive the news conversation. But social media is cutting through the fog. Also, the 드루킹 exploitation attempts, expose the impossible task of the opposition in trying to "frame" the upcoming local elections in a politically advantageous environment. The LKP and other opposition parties, would love for this to be framed as a referendum on the Moon government's failings and the HUGE 최순실-level scandal of online brigading. They would want to avoid the elections to be framed as a continuation of 적폐청산 (removing corruptive elements) like the last elections and a vote for continued stability of a government whose agenda the public generally supports. The polling suggests the people are definitely in the latter frame. VERY early on, pre-polling suggests that the ruling party is way ahead in 서울, 경기, 부산. Also leads are evident in 충남 despite 안희정, 강원 and YES even 경남 province. Much can change in the almost two months till the local elections. And there is always a possibility that a huge scandal will bring down this government and the ruling party. My hot take is: the 드루킹 issue won't be that scandal. The 정상회담 will suck out all the oxygen out of the news cycle in the next week or so. The opposition will try and continue to push for a special prosecution, probably continue their tent rallies. Can they keep this up for the next two months, while refusing to do any work to pass legislation in parliament. People are already calling for lawmaker salaries to be cut. But if they can spend that political capital and damage their reputations as lawmakers to score some political wins at the local elections, it may be worth it. But it feels like a high-risk/low-reward proposition. Good luck to them. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1

KBO- who's up/who's down. Fine dust cancellations? LG sign stealing scandal. MLB- Ryu is the best pitcher on the Dodgers! But getting jerked around in the rotation. Choo showing some power. KBL championships: a very dramatic come-from-behind exciting win by SK Knights that neither of us took interest in Hockey- Men's national team headed to World Championship. Can they avoid the cellar? Random rants- NBA/NHL playoffs, MLB updates, etc Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1

김기식 is out as head of the Financial Supervisory Service. Blue House doubled down by having the 선관위 (National Election Commission) decide on the illegalities of m Kim's alleged violations. They ruled he broke the law and he immediately resigned and the resignation was immediately accepted by 청와대. Some lingering side effects and questions. What is wrong with the vetting system at the Blue House? Should 조국 or 임종석 be held responsible? What happens to reform of the financial/Chaebol sector? Is this a black eye/setback for 문재인's 적폐청산 and holding his administration to a higher standard? Difficult balance of wanting "your guys" in key roles to sincerely carry out policies and recognizing the writing of the wall and backing down. Progressives hope the reform drive does not slow down despite setback. Conservatives want a special prosecution./state investigation. People want 전수조사 on ALL lawmakers with expenses and overseas trips. Petition with well over 200,000 signatures to Blue house. Ruling party/progressives support comprehensive probe. Opposition is opposed. Wonder why? They need to remember the old saying "be careful what you wish for." Investigation continues on the 드루킹/online brigade controversy. Media is having a field day with framing this as a huge scandal. 청와대 and 김경수 have seemingly tweaked their stories as to the extent of contact with 드루킹 and how the process of vetting his recommendation of Osaka chief consulate took place. Lingering question of the timing of when the "macro" software was used by 드루킹 and his 경제적공진화모임 (경공모) crew. What was his M.O.? Why did he turn into such a fierce hater of the Moon government? Opposition once again calling for a 특검 into the affair and saying 김경수 needs to be prosecuted. 내로남불 all over again. Growing calls to look into Naver's murky online news commenting and upvoting system. Claimed that "macros" had no effect on their servers. That has proven to be a false assertion. Conservatives and opposition feel they have a winning hand with this controversy. Progressives and ruling forces say mountains are being made of molehills and a very deep and detailed investigation into the entire online news process will reveal that both sides will come out tainted and possibly the opposition will take the bigger hit. Once again, "be careful what you wish for." 조현민 getting swamped with more and more allegations of outrageous and vulgar behavior to her staff at Korean Air. More employees have come forward after the water rage incident and subsequent rant recording. Lots of lurid details into her 갑질 behavior and general craziness with the work environment she created. "gap-jil" is now a term introduced to the English vernacular after NY Times piece. Pretty shameful. Cho is now suspended from corporate activities pending investigation. Growing calls to remove the entire "3rd generation" of owner's spawn from the corporation by 정의당 members. Her Korean-American status also legally problematic as she was found to hold an executive post at Jin Air, a big no-no for a foreigner to have operations power at an actual airline. People still demanding the "대한" moniker and flag be stripped from the airline. Korean Air still has rights to "한국항공" so ultimately there may not be any major changes. Despite the pessimism with 금수저 folks getting their comeuppance, this issue not going anywhere anytime soon. Rare update on North Korea! CIA chief Pompeo met with 김정은! Secret meeting apparently over Easter weekend. What the heck is going on? Trump blabbers details to the press. Gives his "blessing" for negotiations to end the Korean war during the Inter-Korean summit. De-nuking will be on the table. 5 locations mulled over Trump's meeting with Dear Leader Jr. Some optimism sprinkled with a LOT of skepticism in the ensuing US-North Korean talks on whether a real deal can actually get done. Will Trump try cement his "legacy" through this summit? Will he even get there? Still a lot that can happen from now until June. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1

세월호 참사- 4th year anniversary of the tragedy. Commemorations all around the nation. Still a lot of unanswered questions. The "Katrina moment" and "Emperor has no clothes" revelation for the former 박근혜 regime. 김경수/민주당 댓글조작 의혹- Ruling party and lawmaker/경남지사 예비후보 김경수 embroiled in allegations there was a concerted effort to sway online opinion through the news portal sites. Minjoo and Kim deny the charges. 드루킹 is the central figure in these allegations. A disgruntled and spurned greedy activist? Opposition is making hay out of all this, calling for a special prosecutor and even questioning the legitimacy of the previous presidential election. Deja vu all over again? 2012 vs today: what’s different? "내로남불" a widely used term by netizens. But something doesn't add up. Why would the ruling party call for an investigation into online manipulation with the 단일팀 if they were in charge of a wide-scale scheme of their own? The anecdotal observations show that suspicious activity definitely coincides with the anti-government trolling that goes on. A full in-depth investigation into all online suspicious activity is needed, especially into Naver's comment system. Nobody's hands are clean, but the idea that the opposition will come out of a completely transparent probe with their reputations in tact is a pipe dream. 조현민- another case of deja vu all over again with memories of elder sister 조현아's "nut rage" incident. This time the projectile of choice for this 재벌 scion was a water bottle. Lots of outrage online. Recording emerges of Cho berating an executive at Korean Air 20 years older than her in very derogatory terms. Offends the sensibilities of this Confucian culture. Unfortunate latest episode in a string of endless 갑질 incidents involving the prince and princesses of Korea's conglomerates. Police investigation ensues. Will her being an American citizen be a snag in the prosecution of this case? Cho is trying to put forth a contrite image. Same playbook as sister Hyun-ah. Will she also get a slap on the wrist? She vowed "revenge" allegedly during the Hyun-ah controversy via text. Perhaps the "revenge" this time around will be directed at her via the Korean public. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1

MLB Koreans - 류현진 bounceback game, 추신수 cooling off, 오승환 shaky KBO recap/preview - 양의지 bush league behavior, wider discussion on player-ump dynamics and Korean Confucianism. KBL height discrimination- players too tall, including top stars will be banned from the league to "foster domestic talent"; much derision online. Random rants- fantasy, MLB, NBA playoffs, NHL playoffs, etc. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1

- Apartment complex in 다산신도시 (Dasan New Town) in a dispute with 택배업체(delivery companies) over where to park and deliver packages. Accusations of "갑질" abound on both sides. Issue of safety vs. convenience. Hard to pick a side, but the media narrative and public sentiment has been decidedly against the apartment residents as they demand their packages to be hand-delivered regardless of the inconvenience to the drivers. Lots of previous cases of workers/laborers being abused by apartment residents. - FSS chief 김기식 continuously under fire for alleged improprieties when he was a lawmaker. The 출장 issue as well as the unfortunate mud-slinging with his young intern (여비서 being a dog-whistle?), resulting in backlash from female staff at the National Assembly. Despite the growing pressure for him to resign, 청와대 (Blue House) sticking to their guns. Counter-accusations against LKP's 김성태 of doing the same. Suspicions that Samsung and the other Chaebols are masterminding a smear campaign to oust the reformist financial watchdog. People want to see a "two-top" reformist drive with 김상조 of the FTC and 김기식 of the FSS but the political realities may preclude that scenario. - Local elections starting to heat up as more candidates officially announce. 박원순 announces his bid for a 3rd team as Seoul Mayor. Incumbent 경기 governor 남경필 reportedly prefers a matchup against 이재명 over 전해철, defying conventional wisdom. Possible blue wave in South 경상 with 경남 gubernatorial race "old boy" 김태호 vs Moon-loyalist 김경수 and Busan mayoral race with 오거돈 vs pro-Park incumbent 서병수. 제주 incumbent governor 원희룡 trying to have it both ways by quitting the 바른미래당 but not joining up with 자유한국당. Gonna be a wild ride! Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1

- Some analysis/takes on the issues - Aftermath of 박근혜's sentencing. Polls wanted longer jail term. Samsung/이재용 getting off scot-free? 이명박 gets an indictment of his own. - 이재명 vs 전해철 war of words/social media battle. wife involved? Bernie/Hilary fallout risk for 민주 party. - 삼성증권 (Samsung Securities) in the news with a shares issuance kerfuffle - 금융감독원 chief 김기식 in a Scott Pruitt-type scandal - Mercedes Benz driver attack on Taxi grandpa - Cumulative effect of a polarized society. More anger against the elites. Social cohesion needed. - Some good news? Possible 4-day weekend with 어버이날 given a holiday. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1

MLB opening week/ korean players update w/ Choo, Oh, Ryu, Choi. assess their performance so far and project what they'll do this season - 최지만 being optioned to Triple-A the day after his debut, how Brewers essentially screwed him over so he couldn't exercise his opt-out clause right away, etc (they had 11 pitches on OD roster, not 12, and then acquired an FA pitcher... then Choi became expendable) - 추신수 batting leadoff now after DeShield's injury, Banister was trying him in 6th hole, etc, but Choo still the best OBP man on that team - 류현진 shaky in first start vs. D-Backs.. 5 walks - 오승환 with a win and a save after 2 outings KBO recap/storylines and a preview to the weekend action - 김현수's return to Jamsil to face Doosan for 1st time in regular season, hit a home run on Tuesday - Home runs galore for SK Wyverns... became 1st team ever to hit 6 homers in back to back games (Sunday and Tuesday); a record 234 homers last year, can they break it? - Facing Samsung on the weekend, a chance to add to the HR total, Hanwha vs. upstart KT LPGA 박인비 coming up short at the ANA Championship plus a Masters preview and the hype surrounding Tiger Woods' comeback NBA/MLB/NHL rants. - fantasy stuff and a bunch of tangential stuff. Ohtani, playoff races and whole bunch more. Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1

- 안철수 announced his candidacy for Seoul Mayor in the upcoming local elections. Uphill climb for him based on polling - his supporters are pushing the "아름다운 양보" or "beautiful concession narrative" but this is a very different political environment from 7 years ago. - image has taken a severe beating from his pristine reputation as a visionary software mogul ushering in an age of "new politics" or "새정치" - but the reality belies this 신비주위 or mythical aura he tried to portray after the realities of political life and mud-slinging took its tool. - questions regarding the true success of his company Ahnlab and its negative effect on the nation's IT security, as well as his general wish-washiness on specific policy issues and desire to "have it both ways" on hard political questions. - basic political progression. popularity through talk concerts and media interviews. signaled his interest in running for Seoul mayoral bi-elections in 2011. 아름다운 양보 to eventual mayor 박원순. tried running for president in 2012. agreed on consolidation with 문재인. lost the polling contest to 문. was a "poor sport" and deemed to halfheartedly support Moon in the election which was won by 박근혜. later joined the Democratic party but was a thorn in the side of the mainstream (pro-Moon) faction. after much disputes, led a revolt within the party and split to form the 국민의당 (People's Party) with Honam based lawmakers upset at Moon. Won a big victory in the ensuing parliamentary elections and the 국민의당 became a strong 3rd party in the National Assembly. Tried to parlay his image as a "moderate" and run for president in the aftermath of the 박근혜 collapse in the snap elections. Voters desire for MAJOR change worked against his long-cultivated ambiguous image. Burned bridges once again to force through a merger with the splinter conservative 바른정당. Another split ensued with the Honam lawmakers and Honam people largely abandoning him. - demonstrates a continued pattern of refusing to compromise with his fellow politicos, an opportunistic streak and a persistent unwillingness to take a courageous stand on anything. - so what's his strategy and endgame for the Seoul mayoral race and beyond? does he have another comeback within him? Subscribe, rate and review (preferable 5 stars!) on Apple Podcasts! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/korea-pod/id1361450798?mt=2&ls=1