The Minute to Read (Weekdays) series provides a quick overview of significant events in Korea everyday, conveniently condensed into a one-minute read. Here’s a recap of what happened yesterday: March 18.

South Korea is scrambling to respond after learning belatedly that the United States designated it as a "sensitive country" for energy-related research, triggering confusion within the government and a blame game among ministries. /Graphic by Kim Hyun-kook
South Korea is scrambling to respond after learning belatedly that the United States designated it as a "sensitive country" for energy-related research, triggering confusion within the government and a blame game among ministries. /Graphic by Kim Hyun-kook

S. Korea says U.S. “sensitive country” designation stems from Energy Dept. lab security issues

South Korea’s government is grappling with internal disputes and criticism after it was caught off guard by the U.S. Department of Energy’s decision to designate the country as a “sensitive country” in January. While the Foreign Ministry downplayed the move as a security-related matter, confusion over responsibility has led to finger-pointing between ministries, particularly between the Foreign and Industry Ministries. With the revised U.S. list set to take effect on April 15, the South Korean government is now scrambling to get the designation reversed.

Port of Pyeongtaek-Dangjin in South Korea / News1

Trump trade war fallout: OECD cuts South Korea’s growth outlook to 1.5%

The OECD lowered its global GDP growth forecast, citing the impact of U.S. trade policies, particularly proposed tariffs under Donald Trump, which are expected to weaken investment and household spending. Countries with close trade ties to the U.S., including Canada, Mexico, and South Korea, saw significant downward revisions in their growth projections, while China’s forecast was slightly raised due to policy support. The OECD also warned of rising inflation and economic fragmentation as key risks to global stability.

SK ecoplant is preparing to file a landmark lawsuit against the South Korean government, seeking approximately 500 billion won ($375 million) in compensation for cost overruns tied to delays in the Busan-Masan railway project, sources said. /SK ecoplant

SK ecoplant to sue S. Korea in record case over tunnel collapse

SK ecoplant is preparing to sue the South Korean government for approximately 500 billion won ($375 million) over cost overruns tied to delays in the Busan-Masan railway project, marking the largest-ever lawsuit by a construction firm against the state. The dispute stems from a 2020 tunnel collapse that halted progress, with SK ecoplant arguing the incident was an unforeseeable force majeure event requiring government compensation, while the government disputes this claim. The legal battle is expected to center on whether the collapse qualifies as force majeure, with investigative reports and the absence of an official accident probe potentially influencing the outcome.

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