Korea

Korea comprises two sovereign states: South Korea (population 51.8M, $1.78T GDP, Seoul) and North Korea (population 25.9M, $32B estimated GDP, Pyongyang). South Korea ranks 8th globally by stock market capitalization and is a leading semiconductor and AI hub; North Korea operates under sanctions and maintains active nuclear weapons programs. Recent signals highlight North Korea's military alignment with Russia, succession uncertainty under Kim Ju-ae, and South Korea's digital innovation and judicial proceedings against political figures.