Publications and news appearances by The Korea Society team.
11/2/23 |
Korea JoongAng Daily |
[INTERVIEW] U.S. faces 'K-investment wave' as Korean firms go global
The Korea Society President/CEO Tom Byrne was interviewed by Korea JoongAng Daily on increasing Korean investment in the United States as Korean chipmakers and automakers pledge more than $100 billion in states such as Georgia and Indiana. As Honorary Ambassador for Foreign Investment Promotion for Korea, President Byrne notes that soft power plays a crucial role in securing foreign investment both in and out of Korea, and that the spread of Hallyu will help propel the so-called “K-investment wave.”
For full article, click here
4/25/2023 |
Channel News Asia |
US President Biden to hold summit with South Korean President Yoon
Korea Society President/CEO Tom Byrne was featured on a Channel News Asia Segment on South Korean President Yoon Seok Yeol’s state visit. Speaking alongside Asia Society Policy Institute Vice President Daniel Russel and Senior Fellow for Korea Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations Scott Snyder, President Byrne notes that the recent improved relations between Japan and South Korea is likely in part propelled by concerns on North Korea’s astounding progress in weapons development and China’s geopolitical ambitions in the region.
To watch the segment, click here
2/2/23 |
The Korea Times |
INTERVIEW | US-NK summit is unlikely in 2023: Korea Society
Korea Society President and CEO Thomas Byrne was the featured expert in a Korea Times article. President Byrne discusses issues related to the US-ROK alliance, including nuclear sharing, stating "the best diplomatic and strategic outcome would be [the] denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and nuclear weapon non-proliferation regionally and globally."
For full article, click here
10/18/22 |
Bloomberg |
Hyundai Lobbies US to Ease EV Rule That Hurts Foreign Carmakers
Korea Society President/CEO Tom Byrne was quoted in Bloomberg on the new EV subsidies from the recently-passed Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and their impact on South Korean company Hyundai Motor and its investments in the U.S. market. President Byrne notes the efforts of Korean trade ministers who are advocating for fair, rules-based treatment under the IRA.
For full article, click here
10/8/22 |
REAL CLEAR POLITICS|
South Korean Entertainment Makes Gains in the Digital Age
Korea Society President/CEO Tom Byrne published an Op-ed in the non-partisan political news website RealClearPolitics (RCP) on the broad appeal of the South Korean Entertainment Industry's exports of K-drama, K-pop, and Korean cinema. President Byrne notes the efforts of South Korean entertainment giant CJ Group to promote these products, and highlights the role such cultural exports play in strengthening U.S.-Korea relations, remarking that K-pop is "one of the key channels of people-to-people diplomacy between the U.S. and South Korea."
For full article, click here
10/6/22 |
Financial Times|
Georgia wins top EV contracts thanks to long South Korea courtship
Korea Society President/CEO Tom Byrne was quoted in the Financial Times special report series, "Investing in America" on burgeoning Georgia-South Korea investment ties. President Byrne notes the importance of investment in "technologies that are strategic over a long-term horizon" to shore up U.S. supply chains as well as reduce South Korean companies' dependence on China.
For full article, click here
5/20/22 |
Bloomberg |
Biden Struggles to Woo Asian Nations Wary of Upsetting China
Korea Society President and CEO Tom Byrne was quoted in Bloomberg on President Biden's recent visit to a Samsung Electronics Co. semiconductor complex in Pyeongtaek, South Korea as part of his first trip to Asia. When asked by the reporter about the "sleeping elephants" in the US-ROK alliance, President Byrne emphasized the urgent need to shore up semiconductor supply chain resiliency and boost fab manufacturing in the U.S. through passage of the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors for America (CHIPS) legislation.
For full article, click here
3/16/22 |
THE HILL |
Why the international community should move to mass vaccinate North Korea — now
In an article first published in The Hill, Korea Society President and CEO Tom Byrne argues that the international community-- and the new South Korean president-- should urgently work to vaccinate the entire North Korean population. Despite North Korea's recent provocations, Byrne argues that geopolitical concerns and trust-building measures need to be set aside as "the urgency to effectively control this global pandemic offers the best rationale” for humanitarian vaccine aid by eliminating a potential reservoir for the emergence of an even more lethal variant—and North Korea has the demonstrated organizational capacity to pull this off.
For full article, click here
3/14/22 |
The New York Times |
Wonju Seo: Travelogue at the Korea Society
The Korea Society’s current exhibition Travelogue by Wonju Seo was featured in the New York Times. The exhibition runs through May 27. Writer Will Heinrich writes on the “subtle textile abstractions in an alluring exhibition high over Midtown.”
For full article, click here
02/08/22 |
The Diplomat|
In an article for the Diplomat, Korea Society President and CEO Tom Byrne discusses the new wave of South Korea investment into the U.S. and the rise of partnerships between U.S and Korean corporations in technologies such as batteries, semiconductors, and vaccines. “These fields — critical nodes in the most important 21st-century production networks — are quickly coming to define the next era of South Korea-U.S. business ties."
For full article, click here
For PDF article, click here
11/08/21 |
Korea JoongAng Daily|
Amb. Kathleen Stephen's Mention of Korea Society Founder General Van Fleet and The Korea Society Annual Dinner
In an article for the Korea JoongAng Daily, Korea Society Board Chair Ambassador Kathleen Stephens' wide-ranging remarks touch on retired General James Van Fleet and his goal to " build people-to-people ties between Koreans and Americans" through the establishment of The Korea Society. The Van Fleet Award, one of the most prestigious awards in the field of U.S.–Korea relations, is formally presented to distinguished recipients each year at The Korea Society’s annual dinner. The photo of Ambassador Stephens was taken at Arlington Cemetery on 4 November 2021.
For full article, click here
10/08/21 |
The Diplomat|
What’s Behind North Korea’s Extreme Vaccine Hesitancy?
In an article for the Diplomat, Korea Society President and CEO Thomas Byrne opines on North Korea's recalcitrance in joining the international Covid-19 vaccination campaign. If North Korea had engaged the international community on security issues and South Korea on economic cooperation decades ago, President Byrne argues, "it would be in a better position today to manage the challenges of the pandemic."
For full article, click here
9/25/21 |
NEW YORK POST|
US never stopped ‘longest war’ in South Korea — and now democracy thrives
In an article published by the New York Post, Korea Society President and CEO Tom Byrne remarked on the history of assistance American forces gave in protecting freedom and democracy in South Korea, noting that institution building was also a vital component, and that it took hold in South Korea. But it was the “mutual defense treaty (that) preserved South Korea as an independent nation” in the immediate aftermath of the Korean War.
To read the full article click here
7/5/21 |
South China Morning Post
How will ‘emaciated’ Kim Jong-un ride out a famine in North Korea? With China’s help|
In an article for the South China Morning post, president Tom Byrne and policy director Jonathan Corrado comment on North Korea’s current economic woes and food shortages. President Byrne remarks that, “With no government debt market, Kim is perversely forced to run a harsh austerity policy when any normal country would do the complete opposite in such a historical crisis.” Mr. Corrado attributed the volatility in food prices to “‘a perfect storm of events’ comprising bad weather, a lacklustre harvest, border closures and the government crackdown on the use of foreign currency.”
To read the full article click here
7/2/21 |
Pacific Forum |
Issues & Insights Vol. 21, WP 10 — South Korea’s Demographic Advantage is Over: The Regional Context and the Economic and Security Implications
In a paper for Pacific Forum’s Issues & Insights, president Tom Byrne and policy director Jonathan Corrado write on the economic and security risks South Korea’s low birth rate poses to its future, writing that “South Korea will have to make tough policy and fiscal choices, unless it can achieve another ‘Miracle on the Han’ —this time overcoming its demographic challenge.”
For PDF, click here
6/27/21 |
Fox News|
The Korea Society’s 30th Annual Van Fleet Memorial Golf Tournament was mentioned by Fox News host Jesse Watters, who attended the tournament.
6/24/21 |
The National Interest|
Is North Korea On the Precipice of State Failure?|
In an article for the National Interest, Korea Society president and CEO Tom Byrne and policy director Jonathan Corrado remark on North Korea's stability, writing that while the country remains intact through political repression and outside aid from China, the Kim dynasty could be threatened by the "intensification of the country’s prolonged economic distress that deprives the elite of its economic benefits."
For full article, click here
5/5/21 |
Bloomberg Quicktake "Take the Lead"|
US to distribute more vaccines to developing world|
In an interview on Bloomberg Quicktake, president and CEO Tom Byrne discusses the potential for a vaccine swap between the United States and South Korea as well as South Korea's assistance to the U.S. in the early stages of the pandemic and its progress in vaccine rollout.
To watch the full episode, click here
5/3/21 |
The National Interest|
The U.S. has swapped currencies with South Korea, now it is time to swap vaccines|
In an article for the National Interest, Korea Society president and CEO Tom Byrne proposes that "a U.S.-South Korea vaccine swap would be an all-around win-win policy."
For full article, click here
4/20/21 |
The National Interest|
North Korea Is More Isolated Than Ever Before|
In an article for the National Interest, President Tom Byrne notes that North Korea submitted a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine order to the UN affiliated vaccine alliance, GAVI, but the country is still waiting for its modest 1.7 million dose allotment, relative to its needs. "North Korea was not among the 104 countries that received vaccine doses as of early April, and they likely won’t arrive in May, either. North Korea is reaping what it has sowed in shunning engagement with the international community”
For full article, click here
2/3/21 |
Bloomberg Daybreak: Asia|
U.S., S. Korea Should Work Closely on N. Korea: Former Ambassador
In an interview on Bloomberg Daybreak: Asia, Korea Society Board Chair Ambassador Kathleen Stephens discusses the future of the U.S.- South Korea partnership in the Biden era, as well as the possibility of pursuing dialogue with North Korea in conjunction with regional partners like China, despite ongoing tensions.
To view the video on Bloomberg page: click here
1/29/21 |
Pacific Forum |
PacNet #5 – North Korea Doubles Down on a Dead End
In an article for Pacific Forum PacNet on North Korea’s economic plan announced at the recent party congress, president Tom Byrne and policy director Jonathan Corrado write that, “The plan leaves unanswered the question of the sources of financing. North Korea has scant domestic savings, no access to international credit and has squeezed the foreign currency savings of the donju entrepreneurs and financiers.”
For full article, click here
For PDF, click here
1/22/21 |
The South China Morning Post: Letters |
In a letter to the South China Morning Post, Korea Society President and CEO Thomas Byrne calls for the Biden administration to strengthen cooperation with South Korea in its diplomatic approach towards North Korea, including the possibility of resuming summit meetings. President Byrne remarks that "It’s time to combine maximum engagement with maximum pressure, in close coordination between the US and South Korea."
To read the full article click here
1/5/21 |
Financial Times|
Letter: North Korea is not quite ready to join the IMF
In a letter to the Financial Times, Korea Society President and CEO Thomas Byrne comments on North Korea's economic outlook, writing that, "Until Pyongyang approaches the IMF, it is safe to observe that there is no hope that North Korea harbours the willingness and ability to reform and reap the economic development benefits of international finance and trade."
For full article, click here
11/12/20 |
The Diplomat|
WTO Director Race: The Case for Yoo Myung-hee
In an article for the Diplomat, Korea Society President and CEO Thomas Byrne writes on South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee's candidacy for Director-General of the World Trade Organization, pointing out that Trade Minister Yoo "has convincingly presented herself as a fair mediator on the global stage. She is a bridge candidate, who can speak to the U.S. and China, as well as to both developed and developing nations."
For full article, click here
11/5/2020 |
Arirang Issue|
[Special Live] United States Presidential Election 2020 Part II: IMPACT ON S. KOREA-U.S. TIES
Korea Society Board Chair Ambassador Kathleen Stephens and Korea Society CEO and President Thomas Byrne join a panel of experts on Arirang TV to discuss the impact of the US presidential election on the Korean Peninsula and Northeast Asia region. Both analyze topics ranging from America’s current political tensions, the US-South Korea security alliance, US-China trade relations, and Trade Minister Yoo Myung-Hee’s candidacy for the World Trade Organization.
To view the video on YouTube page: click here
10/27/20 |
Bloomberg Daybreak: Asia|
Previewing Post-Election U.S.-South Korea Ties
In an interview on Bloomberg Daybreak: Asia, Korea Society Board Chair Ambassador Kathleen Stephens discusses U.S.-Korea ties after the upcoming Presidential election, specifically the U.S.-South Korea security and economic relationship, as well as South Korea’s regional relations.
To view the video on Bloomberg page: click here
9/26/20 |
NEW YORK POST|
Korean War 70th Anniversary: Remember the lives a ‘Forgotten War’ took
In an article published by the New York Post, Korea Society Board Chair Ambassador Kathleen Stephens remarked on the 70th Anniversary of the Korean war and the integral assistance American forces under the UN flag gave in protecting freedom and democracy for South Korea.
To read the full article click here
9/25/20 |
The South China Morning Post: Letters |
70 years since Seoul win in Korean war, UN remains as relevant as ever
In a letter to the editor published by the South China Morning Post, Korea Society CEO and President Thomas Byrne remarks on the 70th anniversary of the recapture of Seoul by UN forces on September 25th and South Korea’s enduring commitment to international institutions.
To read the full article click here
9/7/2020 |
Great Decisions on PBS|
U.S.- South Korea Relations - Narrated by David Strathairn
Korea Society CEo and President Tom Byrne was featured in the Documentary “U.S.- South Korea Relations”, part of the Great Decisions documentary series by the Foreign Policy Association.
Click here to watch the episode on YouTube
7/29/20 |
The South China Morning Post: THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC |
Coronavirus: Bill Gates predicts ‘substantial’ reduction in death rate by end of year
An article published by The South China Morning Post featured an interview between Korea Society President Thomas Byrne and South Korean pandemic expert Dr. Kim Woo Joo, who discussed COVID-19 treatments. "'If everything goes well, I am hoping that the effectiveness of these drugs will be scientifically proven within three to four months,' Kim, a professor of infectious diseases at Korea University Guro Hospital, said in an April 16 interview with the president of the Korea Society, Thomas Byrne."
To read the full article click here
6/29/20 |
WALL STREET JOURNAL: OPINION |
North Korea Responding to Financial Dearth
In a letter to the editor published by The Wall Street Journal, Korea Society president Thomas Byrne explains the economic factors impacting North Korea's recent foreign policy decisions, writing: "What has likely prompted Kim Jong Un to 'hit the pause button' regarding his threats against South Korea isn’t a desire to place North-South reconciliation back on track but financial desperation."
To read the full article click here
6/25/20 |
Daily News: OPINION |
70 years later, remember the ‘The Forgotten War’ and appreciate the South Korean-American relationship
In a new article for New York Daily News, Korea Society president Thomas Byrne writes, "As the 70th anniversary of the start of the Korean War is marked, the two allies remain in a strong position to overcome difficulties. North Korea’s recent provocations have once again highlighted that the U.S.-South Korean alliance is the ballast supporting peace and prosperity in the region. It must not give way."
To read the full article click here
6/10/20 |
The National Interest|
South Korea's Economic Policies Prepared It for the Coronavirus—North Korea's Did Not|
In a new article for The National Interest, Korea Society president Thomas Byrne writes, "the coronavirus pandemic casts into sharp contrast the fortunes of North and South Korea, showing how differently they have evolved in the seven decades since the Korean War. Pyongyang’s inability to deal with the virus in any way other than to shut its borders and restrict domestic travel has sparked a huge shortfall in government revenue... Meanwhile, Seoul’s timely and effective response to the virus that avoided lockdowns and blockades is held up as a worldwide example, burnishing South Korea’s status as a financial safe haven which allows it to affordably fund stimulus measures with government debt."
For full article, click here
5/3/20 |
Fox 5 | New on the Hill | Washington DC|
In an interview with Fox 5 DC On the Hill, Korea Society President Tom Byrne discusses the impact of North Korean Chairman Kim Jong Un's prolonged absence on denuclearization talks and South Korea's approach to dealing with coronavirus, saying, "Korea not only flattened the curve; they were ahead of the curve."
Running time 04:38
To watch the interview, click here
4/27/20 |
Foreign Policy |
The Coronavirus Has Pushed North Korea’s Economy to the Edge
In a new article for Foreign Policy about North Korea's current economic prospects, Korea Society president Thomas Byrne writes, "North Korea is left to its own devices, facing the coronavirus pandemic without access to credit or emergency financing from the IMF, World Bank, Asian Development Bank, or other governments—let alone access to global capital markets. Nevertheless, there are no indications from Pyongyang that it is ready to throw in the towel on Juche, its policy of self-reliance, and embark on reform and opening. The same obstacles that prevented progress in 1997 prevail today, and nothing has changed institutionally in more than two decades—except the addition of international sanctions."
To read the full article, click here
4/21/20 |
FOX News |
During the coronavirus crisis, how is North Korea really handling its 'zero cases'?
In a new article for Fox News about the impact of coronavirus on North Korea, "Thomas Byrne, president of the Korea Society, pointed out that several news items emerged this week, indicating the regime's economic fallout as well from the pandemic."
To read the full article, click here
4/18/20 |
South China Morning Post |
Dr Kim Woo Joo, who led South Korea’s response to Covid-19 and the outbreak of Mers in 2015, said he was 'not very optimistic' about the availability of a Covid-19 vaccine in the next 18 months, but said evidence about the effectiveness of remdesivir, an experimental antiviral developed to treat Ebola; AbbVie’s Kaletra, an anti-HIV drug; or other medicines might be possible sooner. 'If everything goes well, I am hoping that the effectiveness of these drugs will be scientifically proven within three to four months,' Kim, a professor of infectious diseases at Korea University Guro Hospital, said in an interview on Wednesday with the president of the Korea Society, Thomas Byrne.
Link to the full article, click here
4/15/20 |
CNBC |
South Korea’s opposition had ‘surprisingly big defeat’ in elections: The Korea Society
In an interview with CNBC on South Korea's National Assembly election on April 15, Korea Society Board Chair Ambassador Kathleen Stephens said, "Korea is benchmarking a lot of good practices for dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. This became the issue in the election and eclipsed some of the other issues that were not playing so well for Moon Jae-in and the ruling party... The citizens came out and said that they appreciate what this government has done, but I think it was a surprise to everybody that the turnout was as strong as it was. Koreans really do value their institutions and their democracy and so they were ready to vote."
To view the interview on CNBC site, click here
4/15/20 |
Bloomberg |
South Korea's virus response had high degree of transparency and competence
In an interview with Bloomberg Daybreak Asia (39:35) on Korea's response to the coronavirus, Korea Society President Thomas Byrne says, "Korea responds well when there is a crisis, and Koreans really have grit. They responded well to the 1997 IMF financial crisis and they are responding very well now. Everything came together really quickly in the middle of February. The government has orchestrated a good program with the government, the public health institutions, and the citizens all chipping in, all three of them together to manage this crisis."
For full video, click here
4/7/20 |
REUTERS: BREAKINGVIEWS|
Come together
In an opinion piece published by Reuters BreakingViews, Korea Society Board Member Bill Rhodes urges the importance of multilateral cooperation to deal with the effects of coronavirus, writing, "it is increasingly likely that the world faces a longer, harder, much more fitful, difficult path to normalcy. We must gird ourselves for the long haul. That requires much greater coordination internationally of our responses to maximize the impact. So far that crucial piece of the puzzle has been missing."
For full article, click here | For full article at EACC (FREE), click here
3/17/20 |
The Washington Post |
South Korea’s coronavirus success story underscores how the U.S. initially failed
In an article by the Washington Post, Korea Society president Thomas Byrne writes, "No nation’s response has been perfectly effective, but the high degree of transparency and competency of South Korean health officials provides helpful lessons about containment efforts for other countries, and about the nature of this pandemic for the international scientific community.”
For full article, click here
3/16/20 |
Bloomberg |
No One Knows How Many Virus Cases North Korea Has. It Says Zero
In an article for Bloomberg, Korea Society president Thomas Byrne discusses North Korea's human rights situation and public health system amid ongoing concerns about the potential for the novel coronavirus to spread in the country.
For full article, click here
3/14/20 |
South China Morning Post |
In a new letter to the editor of the South China Morning Post, Korea Society president Thomas Byrne writes, "South Korea is providing other societies with an example of how to respond in a smart and targeted way, while shunning travel bans, with limited exceptions, and avoiding widespread lockdowns whose social costs might outweigh the health benefits."
Link to the full article, click here
3/11/20 |
Pacific Forum |
PacNet #11 – Two tasks for making US-ROK troop burden sharing sustainable
In a new article about the U.S.- Korea military cost sharing deal for Pacific Forum PacNet, Korea Society chairperson Ambassador Kathleen Stephens and president Tom Byrne write, "The time is now for the United States and South Korea to come to terms on a deal that works for both sides. The smooth functioning of the alliance should not be impaired by an accounting impasse that loses sight of the incalculable benefits from 70 years of partnership."
For full article, click here
For PDF, click here
1/5/20 |
Fox 5 | New on the Hill | Washington DC|
Tom Byrne, president of the Korea Society joins Fox 5 News On The Hill to discuss the latest out of North Korea.
Running time 05:11
To watch the full interview, click here
1/2/20 |
Bloomberg |
Kim Jong Un’s New Year Comments Are Ominous (Radio)
Korea Society President Thomas Byrne discusses the meaning of Kim Jong Un's "new way" and the implications of his plenary speech on the Bloomberg Radio program Daybreak Asia.
Running time 06:10
To listen to the full interview, click here
11/26/19 |
The New York Times |
The U.S. and South Korea: Ways to Bolster an Alliance
In a letter to the editor of the New York Times, Korea Society President Thomas Byrne writes that, "The failure of the most recent round of talks between the United States and South Korea on how to equitably share the costs of American troops on the peninsula is dangerous to the future of this crucial alliance, which has kept the peace in Northeast Asia for more than six decades. The alliance has also underpinned South Korea’s prosperity and fostered trade and investment relations increasingly beneficial to America."
For full article, click here
11/23/19 |
VOA |
Korea Society Board Chairman Ambassador Thomas Hubbard discusses dynamic aspects of the U.S.-Korea Alliance during a Voice of America Segment. Together with the Council on Foreign Relations’ Scott Snyder, Ambassador Hubbard explores the meaning of Korea’s decision not to suspend an intelligence sharing agreement with Japan and the current state of cost sharing measures for hosting America troops in Korea.
To view on VOA site, click here
11/20/19 |
KBS WORLD RADIO |
Concerns Mount Over US Demand for S. Korea to Pay More for Defense
KBS World Radio ran an article citing an article by president Thomas Byrne and board director General Walter Sharp. "Several former leaders of U.S. troops in South Korea and other American figures are voicing their concern over Washington’s demand for Seoul to quadruple its defense cost-sharing contribution, calling for a “creative solution” to satisfy both allies. In a joint article published in the U.S.-based magazine National Interest on Wednesday, Thomas Byrne, President of the Korea Society, and Walter Sharp, former U.S. Forces Korea Commander, warned that after more than 60 years, the countries' alliance could be strained over the issue."
For full article, click here
11/19/19 |
The National Interest |
America and South Korea Must Negotiate a Fair Extension of the SMA
In an opinion article published by The National Interest, the Korea Society's president and CEO Thomas Byrne and Board Director General Walter Sharp evaluate the ongoing negotiations to the U.S.-ROK Alliance cost sharing agreement. They write: "It is in the interest of the U.S. and South Korea to negotiate a fair extension of the SMA that does not raise accusations among the Korean population that the U.S. is a mercenary force in their country while also addressing the concerns of the U.S. that its allies shoulder as much of their own defense burden as possible. Much is at stake in maintaining global order. The 66-year U.S.-South Korea alliance has kept the peace and maintained geopolitical conditions for mutual prosperity. South Korea is America’s sixth-largest trade partner and its major corporations are increasingly investing in the U.S."
For full article, click here
11/16/19 |
Radio 1490 WGCH | ASIA TODAY| |
Korea Society president Thomas J. Byrne discusses the Korea Society on Asia Today with Jeffrey Bingham Mead. Asia Today with Jeffrey Bingham Mead airs on Radio 1490 WGCH Greenwich, Connecticut USA and WGCH.com.
To listen to the full interview, click here
10/17/19 |
YONHAP NEWS AGENCY |
Finance minister holds overseas roadshow on S. Korean economy
An article of Yonhap News quoted Korea Society president Thomas Byrne. "South Korea's finance minister held an overseas roadshow on the country's economy to some 100 investors in New York amid growing uncertainties about Asia's fourth-biggest economy. Thomas Byrne, president of the Korea Society, asked about the possibility of Korea entering a deflation given the country's record-low consumer price level."
To read the full article, click here
9/12/19 |
UPI |
Analysts: U.S. approach 'inadequate' to restore South Korea, Japan ties
Amb. Thomas Hubbard, chairman of the Korea Society and former U.S. ambassador to South Korea, joined by Sheila Smith, senior fellow for Japan studies at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington were quoted in an article of UPI. At a Korea Society program on September 12, 2019, Smith said the (U.S) president's approach to U.S. alliances represents a setback for key partners in Northeast Asia and Amb. Hubbard said past U.S. administrations took a more active approach to handling bilateral relations between Seoul and Tokyo, including during the Bush administration, when he served his term as U.S. ambassador to South Korea.
To read the full article, click here
8/18/19 |
Bloomberg |
Tensions Between South Korea And Japan Could Spiral (Radio)
Thomas Byrne, President, The Korea Society, joined Rishaad Salamat on Daybreak Asia. He discusses some of the factors behind the deterioration in relations between South Korea and Japan. He goes on to whether the U.S. could do more in helping mediate between the two.
Running time 06:07
To listen to the full interview, click here
8/7/19 |
The Washington Post |
Our allies in Asia must find common ground on North Korea
In an oped published by the Washington Post, Korea Society President Thomas Byrne and Board Chairman Ambassador Thomas Hubbard contend that, "The United States has a deep stake in northeast Asia and must play an active and constructive role in fostering healthy Korean-Japanese relations. Korea and Japan are both treaty allies with the United States. Our defense interests are closely linked, and it is crucial that our militaries work together as we face the North Korean denuclearization challenge. The prosperity that the United States, South Korea and Japan share depends on expanding trade ties and maintaining a rules-based economic order free of political interference and tenuous national security concerns. It is urgent that our key allies in northeast Asia find common ground before their deteriorating relations cause irreparable strategic and economic damage."
For full article, click here
7/26/19 |
Daily News: OPINION |
An armistice and an alliance worth honoring: Why the strategic partnership between United States and South Korea must remain strong
Marking the 66th anniversary of the Armistice that ended the Korean War in an oped for Daily News, Korea Society President writes, "The U.S.-South Korea alliance remains vibrant today and crucial to peace and prosperity in the region thanks to those who fought and died for both countries in the Korean War."
To read the full article click here
6/25/19 |
REUTERS: BREAKING NEWS |
Payback time
In a new article published by Reuters Breaking Views, Korea Society President Thomas Byrne contends that, "Collateral damage from the trade war is piling up in South Korea, whose two largest foreign markets are the United States and China. Exports have fallen for six straight months and the economy is contracting... Significant steps by Seoul to bolster its already strong economic partnership with the United States deserve to be rewarded with more than just words... An exemption from the auto tariffs would be a good place to start. In addition, the United States could return to a predictable, equitable and long-term military cost-sharing agreement with South Korea when it comes up for renegotiation in the year ahead."
For full article (Subscription required), click here
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Download PDF
6/21/19 |
REUTERS: WORLD NEWS |
North Korea has more than sanctions to overcome for foreign investment: report
A Korea Society report was featured in a Reuters article about North Korea's economy. The article says, "While there are no signs that international sanctions imposed on North Korea over its nuclear weapons will be officially lifted soon, researchers at a U.S.-based think tank say North Korea has more fundamental problems to overcome if it wants access to foreign finance... 'North Korea will require substantial and sustained amounts of external financing, hence the need for it to establish creditworthiness,' said co-authors Thomas Byrne and Jonathan Corrado."
Reuters article link
Full report by The Korea Society in PDF
6/19/19 |
dongA.com |
Hopes for Improvement in Korea-Japan Relations
In an oped for the Dong-A Ilbo, Korea Society Chairman Ambassador Thomas Hubbard explains the integral role that cooperative Korea-Japan relations play in a successful approach to North Korea. Ambassador Hubbard states, “South Korea and Japan are allies that the U.S. has deep relations with. In the defense sector, the interests of the three parties are closely related. We all want peace and security in Northeast Asia. The first response from our military is directed at a challenge from North Korea. Everyone is in agreement on the security of the Korean Peninsula, and it is important for South Korea, the U.S., and Japan to cooperate effectively. Japan knows that peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula is also key to its security. South Koreans should also acknowledge that U.S. troops in Japan are key to fulfilling the U.S. defense commitment.”
To read the full article in Korean, click here
Download PDF in ENGLISH
5/21/19 |
TRT World Now
Dr. Stephen Noerper of the Korea Society addressed today’s comments of the North Korean Ambassador to the UN around the UN ship seizure. He appeared on TRTWorld’s noon broadcast.
5/16/19 |
The National Interest |
South Korea 'Probably Doesn’t Like Us Too Much'? That’s Just Not Correct.
In an article for The National Interest, Korea Society President Thomas Byrne writes that the US-Korea Alliance "is one of the closest and most strategically important of any that the United States maintains. There is a strong sense in both countries of shared values and appreciation for their mutual prosperity."
For full article, click here
5/10/19 |
South China Morning Post |
In an opinion article for the South China Morning Post, Korea Society president Thomas Byrne offers a retrospective look at the South Korean Moon presidency at two years, saying that despite the recent impasse in denuclerization negotiations with North Korea, "the diplomatic achievements of the last year are an impressive testament to Moon’s persistence."
Link to the full article, click here
5/1/19 |
i24 NEWS | CLEAR CUT PLUS with Michelle Makori
Dr. Stephen Noerper of the Korea Society addresses North Korean comments on negotiations with the US and concerns about Huawei among US allies.
To watch the clip on their site, click here
4/27/19 |
V News |
Stephen Noerper, senior director at the Korea Society in New York discuss North Korea issue on Vnews.
For link to the recorded interview (from minute 14'15" to 16'50" and from minute 18'50" to 19'30" ), click here
4/9/19 |
Pacific Forum |
PacNet #24: Kim Jong Un's choice – Economic reform would be a risk well taken by North Korea
Economic reform would be a risk well taken by North Korea, according to Korea Society president Thomas Byrne and associate director Jonathan Corrado. In a new article for Pacific Forum PacNet, the authors content that, "Pyongyang's leadership seems to be more attuned than ever about benefits from economic development, but so far bold action and systemic reform are missing. The cases of China and Vietnam show a path to prosperity if North Korea embraces a pluralistic communist system in which new interest groups coalesce to support reform. Such a transition would likely allow the international community—including the U.S., South Korea, Japan and the international financial institutions, including the IMF, the World Bank, ADB and even the AIIB—to help Pyongyang proceed down that road. Economic benefits from this process could change Pyongyang's suspicious attitude towards the U.S. and the outside world."
For full article, click here
For PDF, click here
3/31/19 |
Gingrich 360: Newt's World |
Episode 8: How It Happened - Two Koreas
with Stephen Noerper
The history of US and Korea. How did we get here? The story behind the politics of the moment.
Listen to the full Podcast, click here
3/12/19 |
The National Interest |
The Hanoi Summit – We Asked Stephen Noerper What Happens Next in U.S.-North Korea Relations
In an article for The National Interest, Korea Society Senior Director Stephen Noerper writes, "The Hanoi Summit was not the unmitigated disaster many observers termed it. It is step two in a likely long and arduous process that will entail breakoffs, walkaways and other setbacks that accompany denuclearization."
For full article, click here
3/2/19 |
FOX News |
Judith Miller: Trump's bad week (it could have been a lot worse)
But many Korea experts welcomed Trump’s decision to walk away. “Better no deal than a bad deal,” said Thomas Byrne, the president of the Korea Society. A deal that would not lead to “full, verifiable, irreversible denuclearization,” one that would have accepted North Korea’s status as a nuclear power, would have weakened America’s alliance with South Korea and Japan and proven destabilizing, he said.
To read the full article, click here
3/2/19 |
Vietnam News Agency |
In an interview with Vietnam News Agency about the results of the second Trump-Kim summit in Vietnam, Korea Society Senior Director says, "Seoul is playing a critical role as a mediator, pushing the momentum forward. This isn't 2017 or 2018. The tensions are lower. But we have to find a way to make progress. North Korea has to be more forthcoming to realize what it wants."
To watch the full interview on site, click here
2/28/19 |
CNBC |
I'm glad that Trump's tone was 'realistic': Former US ambassador
Thomas Hubbard of the Korea Society says it is good that both leaders had positive attitudes ahead of talks at the Trump-Kim summit in Hanoi. Hubbard, a former U.S. ambassador to South Korea, also says that U.S. President Donald Trump is right to not expect an "immediate success" out of this meeting.
To view the interview on CNBC site, click here
2/27/19 |
Bloomberg |
U.N. Would Like Full Denuclearization of North Korea (Radio)
Thomas Byrne, President, Korea Society, joined Bryan Curtis and Paul Allen on Daybreak Asia. He says that if North Korea is genuinely interested in economic development, they will have to have to make the choice to give up nuclear weapons. He also reacts to initial comments ahead of the summit on Thursday morning.
Running time 07:22
To listen to the full interview, click here
2/25/19 |
Pacific Forum |
PacNet #17 – Preserving the US-ROK alliance is critical
In a new article for PacNet about the upcoming Trump-Kim summit in Vietnam, Korea Society president Thomas Byrne & board director General Walter Sharp emphasize the importance of the US-South Korea Alliance in the negotiation process. "In any scenario post-Hanoi," they write, "the steady hand of the alliance will be key. With luck, it will be the cornerstone of a new era of non-hostile engagement & cooperation w/ North Korea."
For full article, click here
For PDF, click here
2/24/19
FOX 5 DC: News on the Hill
2/6/19 |
The National Interest |
North Korea and America’s Second Summit: Here’s What Tom Byrne Thinks Will Happen
In a new article for The National Interest, Korea Society President Tom Byrne writes, "Chairman Kim Jong-un declared in his New Year’s speech that 2019 will be the year for economic development. A brighter economic future would be best served by rapid progress in verified denuclearization."
For full article, click here
2/6/19 |
The National Interest |
North Korea and America’s Second Summit: Here’s What Stephen Noerper Thinks Will Happen
In a new article for The National Interest, Korea Society Senior Director Stephen Noerper says that the Trump-Kim summit will yield "a limited declaration of some North Korean missile and nuclear capabilities and some acceptance of verification in exchange for a lessening of sanctions, aid package & move towards normalization."
For full article, click here
1/1/19
CNBC
There was 'frustration' in Kim Jong Un's message: Expert
Thomas Byrne of The Korea Society says North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's New Year address had an "underlying element of frustration" over a lack of progress in negotiations with the U.S.
To view the interview on CNBC site, click here
12/20/18 |
The Washington Post |
The U.S.-South Korea alliance can withstand the current diplomatic pressures
In a new The Washington Post oped, Korea Society President Thomas Byrne says, "An alliance that can continue to adapt to changing conditions, amid the crosscurrents of denuclearization, is essential for moving the process forward."
For full article, click here
12/20/18 |
Newsweek |
"I am one American who would like to see South Korea in the lead of this process, bringing North Korea into the world... and perhaps the U.S. advising caution here and there." - Korea Society Chairman Thomas Hubbard
Link to the original article, click here
11/28/18 |
Bloomberg |
Kim Jong Un’s Puppy Diplomacy Pays Off With Korea Railway Study
Stephen Noerper, senior director at the Korea Society in New York says, “Should South Korea request some sanctions relief aimed at economic aid that is part of inter-Korean easing, the U.S. should be able to live with that... North Korea has to show progress to give Moon the political space he needs to proceed.”
For full article, click here
11/14/18 |
Bloomberg |
Focus Now on Second Trump-Kim Summit (Radio)
Thomas Byrne, President, Korea Society, joined Doug Krizner and Paul Allen on Daybreak Asia, discussing the latest on relations between the U.S. and North Korea, starting with President Trump’s reaction to reports of undeclared nuclear sites.
Running time 06:27
To listen to the full interview, click here
10/19/18 |
dongA.com |
North Korea: High-Level Engagement Lends Momentum to Talks
In an oped for Dong-A Ilbo, Korea Society Chairman Ambassador Thomas Hubbard evaluates the evolving situation on the Korean Peninsula, writing, "Indeed we have come a long way from last year." Describing this progress, Ambassador Hubbard writes, "A year ago, we were watching the North Koreans carry out increasingly threatening nuclear and missile tests and worried about imminent war on the Peninsula. Now nearly a year has passed without provocative North Korean tests, and far from talking about war, we engaged in an unprecedented flurry of top-level meetings, beginning with President Moon’s meeting with Kim Jong-un at Panmunjom during the Winter Olympics. Thanks to this initiative, and President Trump’s willingness to follow up with his own meeting with Kim in Singapore, we appear to have unprecedented momentum toward progress on the Korean Peninsula."
To read the full article in Korean, click here
To download the English translation of the full article in PDF, click here
10/11/18 |
South China Morning Post: United States & Canada |
US Ambassador to UN Nikki Haley steps down as Trump lauds her work with North Korea
Asked about the impact of Nikki Haley on the Korean Peninsula by The South China Morning Post, Korea Society President Thomas Byrne credited Haley with assuming a key role at a sensitive time in relations with North Korea. "The US-led resolute response to North Korea’s escalation of provocative launches and nuke tests was effective, as it worked to get North Korea to the negotiating table in 2018," he said.
To read the full article, click here
9/26/18 |
Money Today |
Confirmation from North Korea’s willingness to join the IMF
South Korean President Moon Jae-in was asked by Korea Society President Thomas Byrne if North Korea is willing to become a member of International Monetary Fund (IMF). President Moon replied, “based on the premise that a process of denuclearization is either complete or irreversible and as a result, economic sanctions on North Korea are removed, South Korea is willing to take the lead to build infrastructure for economic development in North Korea. I believe the effort will not only help North Korean development, but it will be a new force of growth for the South Korean economy.”
To read the full article in Korean, click here
9/26/18 |
Kukmin Ilbo |
North Korea cannot endure U.S. retaliation. Trust honesty of Kim Jong Un.
When asked by Korea Society President Tom Byrne whether North Korea has expressed willingness to join the International Monetary Fund (IMF), South Korean President Moon Jae-in said, “North Korea has confirmed they are willing to reform by joining several international organizations, such as IMF and World Bank (WB).”
To read the full article in Korean, click here
9/25/18
Bloomberg
South Korea's Moon Becomes Kim Jong Un's Top Spokesman at UN
Senior Director Stephen Noerper says “I don’t see Moon as Kim’s spokesperson, but as a leader who needs Kim and Trump amenable to agreement.”
To read the whole article, click here
9/19/18 |
The Chosun Ilbo. |
“Kim Jong Un will eventually denuclearize as he wants to remain in power for the next 40 years,” says Gen. Sharp, Korea Society board director, in an interview with Chosun Ilbo. General Sharp also mentioned that, “filing an accurate report of the North's nuclear arsenal, destroying intercontinental ballistic missiles or agreeing to a specific time frame for denuclearization would ensure U.S. support.” He also believes it is unlikely the U.S. will withdraw troops from South Korea following a declaration to end the Korean War.
To read the full article, click here
9/18/18 |
REUTERS: BREAKINGVIEWS |
President Donald Trump’s trade war threatens the possibility of peace in Korea, say Korea Society President Thomas Byrne and Chairman Ambassador Thomas Hubbard in a new Reuters Breaking Views article. The two write, "Capricious auto tariffs on the flimsy pretext of national security only complicates denuclearization negotiations already fraught with mistrust."
To read the full article, click here
7/26/18 |
Bloomberg Opinion |
Korea Society President Thomas Byrne explains that Korean War Armistice, "has kept relative peace on the Korean peninsula, underpinned one of America’s most important alliances, & enabled South Korea’s remarkable rise to prosperity."
To read the full article, click here
7/18/18 |
i24 NEWS |
Dr. Stephen Noerper spoke to i24 television about Trump, Pompeo, and North Korea.
To watch the clip, click here
7/12/18
Bloomberg
Dr. Stephen Noerper speaks to White House and State negotiations with the DPRK.
"Trump is tacking toward viability,” said Stephen Noerper, senior director of the New York-based Korea Society and an adjunct political science professor at Columbia University. “He wants a deal and is comfortable letting Secretary Pompeo usher this through. He is willing to overlook the diatribe that followed the secretary’s Pyongyang visit.”
To read the whole article, click here
6/24/18
FOX 5 DC: News on the Hill
6/20/18
CNBC
China's boycott of US goods remains a real threat
"Boycotts politicize trade and thus make consumers and corporations worse off," Thomas Byrne, the president of The Korea Society, told CNBC. "China scores political points, and does not reap economic gains by the use of boycotts. They are in effect de-factor quotas, and in that sense are worse than tariffs. Smaller countries that have faced boycotts of some of their goods and services sold in China, namely South Korea, are often highly dependent on China's market..."
To read the whole article, click here
6/12/18
Bloomberg
Trump-Kim Agreement 'Disappointing,' Former U.S. Ambassador Says
Thomas Hubbard, chairman of the Korea Society and a former U.S. Ambassador to South Korea, talks about the talks between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Hubbard speaks with Ramy Inocencio and Haidi Lun on "Bloomberg Daybreak: Australia." (Source: Bloomberg)
To watch the video, click here
6/12/18
BBC: World News
North Korea's Economy
Asked about how the summit is viewed in the US, President of the Korea Society Thomas Byrne said that the 12 June summit in Singapore is unconventional given its top-down nature. The fact that two rounds of more traditional bottom-up negotiations have failed in the past, however, means it is possible this new approach will yield positive results.
6/11/18
Bloomberg TV
Bloomberg Daybreak: Americas' Full Show
(Minute 49:00 onward) Dr. Stephen Noerper speaks to the Trump-Kim Singapore summit.
To watch the video, click here
6/11/18
CNBC
Wouldn't be surprised if Kim Jong Un tries to hang onto nukes
Amb. Thomas Hubbard, Korea Society chairman and former U.S. ambassador to the Republic of Korea, and Rod Hunter, Baker McKenzie partner and former National Security Council senior director, discuss the expectations for the summit between President Trump and North Korea's Kim Jong Un.
To watch the video on site, click here
6/11/18
TBS: This Morning with Alex Jensen
The Korea Society chairman, Ambassador Thomas Hubbard spoke to TBS, This Morning with Alex Jensen radio to discuss his views on the Trump-Kim Singapore summit.
To listen/download the interview, click here
5/27/18
FOX 5 DC: News on the Hill
Asked about the upcoming June 12 summit in Singapore between President Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un, Korea Society president Tom Byrne told Fox 5 DC that more important than the timing of the summit is, "What will they agree on? The definition of denuclearization still has to be defined. North Korea's concerns about the US stopping its hostile attitude have to be defined. That’s more important than the actual date of the agreement."
5/24/18
Bloomberg Daybreak Asia
Door Open For Future North Korea Summit
Thomas Byrne, President, The Korea Society, discussed President Trump’s cancellation of the summit with North Korea with Doug Krizner and Juliette Saly. He tells them he sees a diplomatic game ahead, explains the Libyan model and gives his analysis of Moon Jae-In’s role in matters.
To listen to the radio interview, click here
5/24/18
South China Morning Post: EAST ASIA
‘They stood us up’: White House says it cancelled Kim Jong-un meeting because North Korea refused to talk – despite Donald Trump’s earlier claims
Inability to agree on the content of the discussions or what the two sides would agree to likely contributed to Trump’s move on Thursday, said Thomas Byrne, president of the New York-based Korea Society...
To read the full article, click here
5/24/18
CGTN AMERICA
Backchannel contacts between Washington and Pyongyang likely to continue
“The State Department has until recently had a point person on North Korea, who is basically the lead in terms of managing that,” Stephen Noerper, Senior Director at the Korea Society said. “A special representative, and that individual communicates directly with the North Korean mission here in New York...”
To read the full article, click here
5/24/18
CNBC
Summit was probably a bad idea in the first place, says former ambassador
Amb. Thomas Hubbard, former ambassador to the Republic of Korea and chairman of The Korea Society, weighs in on President Trump's decision to cancel the summit between the U.S. and North Korea.
To watch the video on site, click here
5/23/18
Bloomberg TV
U.S.-China Trade Tension
(Minutes 30:30-36:00) Korea Society Senior Director Dr. Noerper: "Pyongyang wants a security guarantee, economic benefits, and diplomatic normalization. US troops are not on the table at the moment. South Korea is driving this process."
To watch the video, click here
5/22/18
Bloomberg Daybreak Asia
Preparations For Trump-Kim Summit Very Unorthodox
Thomas Byrne, President, President, The Korea Society, joined Doug Krizner and David Ingles to discuss doubts over the summit between North Korea and the U.S. going ahead. He explains how definitions of denuclearization are now being refined and what each side hopes to gain.
To listen to the radio interview, click here
5/22/18
CNBC
Both Trump and Kim want a summit to happen: Former US ambassador
President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un want to see the June 12 summit in Singapore go ahead, says Thomas Hubbard of McLarty Associates and former U.S. ambassador to South Korea.
To watch the video on site, click here
5/13/18
WALL STREET JOURNAL
Korea Society contributes data to Wall Street Journal article about military cost sharinge
A new Wall Street Journal article looks at the military cost sharing deal between the US and Korea, and suggests that the US derives tactile benefits like free rent on top of intangible values-based benefits from the arrangement. Korea Society contributed data to the report, resulting in a graph that shows how South Korea's contribution to host U.S. troops has risen faster than inflation.
Link to the article, click here
5/10/18
South China Morning Post: EAST ASIA
Donald Trump hopes for ‘world peace’ as he announces he will meet North Korea’s Kim Jong-un in Singapore in June
Asked about the developing diplomatic process with North Korea by the South China Morning Post, Korea Society President Tom Byrne says, “Even the skeptics, who look at the history of the negotiations with North Korea, look upon this as an opening for a breakthrough. I don’t get a sense that there’s a significant number of people saying it’s just a trap and to stay away.”
To read the entire article, click here
5/10/18
Foreign Policy
The Stars of North Korea Talks Revolve Around Moon
Dr. Stephen Noerper speaks to South Korean President Moon Jae-in’s adroit diolomacy in the summit process.
“Moon spent 10 years in the woods,” says Stephen Noerper, the Korea Society’s senior director for policy. “That gave him a great deal of time to think about North Korea policy.” Some of that thought went into refining the “sunshine” approach: Moon isn’t quite as far left as many in his inner circle. He wanted engagement, but with caution.
To read the full article, click here
5/10/18
CTV (Canada)
Dr. Stephen Noerper appeared on the 6:30 PM national broadcast of CTV, commenting on the lead-up to the Trump-Kim summit, the leading role of Moon Jae-in, and the complex of international actors: South Korea, North Korea, United States, China, Japan and Russia.
5/1/18
CBC NEWS
Trump winning the Nobel Peace Prize? Why experts give him credit for North Korea talks
Dr. Stephen Noerper describes the evolution of the summit process and Kim Jong Un’s desire for economic modernization.
To read the full article, click here
The Korea Society in the News Archive
