In this enlightening discussion, Alexander Stubb, Finland’s former prime minister and an astute commentator on European politics, shares insights on Finland's evolving NATO stance amidst rising geopolitical tensions. He examines the implications for European security and collective defense. Lena Shipper, The Economist's Seoul bureau chief, covers Yoon Suk-yeol's tumultuous presidential victory in South Korea, highlighting economic challenges and North Korea's threat while also showcasing innovative research on early Parkinson's detection.

Lena Shipper, The Economist's Seoul bureau chief and North Korea expert, discusses the tense food situation in the country, exacerbated by pandemic policies and sanctions. She highlights how the government's rare admission of food shortages poses a challenge to regional stability. Meanwhile, Johnny Williams analyzes the rising influence of conspiracy theories among Hispanic Americans, focusing on the interplay between faith and misinformation in social media. They reveal intriguing insights about cultural shifts around traditional Indian moonshine, Mahua, and its revitalization efforts.

Join Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, and Lena Shipper, the Korea correspondent, as they dive into the EU's vaccination rollout amidst challenges of supply and public skepticism. They discuss how different member states are navigating their vaccination strategies and the implications for unity within the EU. Lena also explores South Korea's unique hiking culture, revealing its deep ties to national identity and individual reflection. Plus, insights into the changing dynamics of the British royal family add an intriguing twist!

Idris Kalun, U.S. policy correspondent for The Economist, and Lena Shipper, the Seoul bureau chief, dive into the complexities of Trump's leadership during COVID-19. They discuss how his administration's handling of the crisis revealed deeper preexisting issues in America's healthcare system. Shipper also reflects on the poignant 40th anniversary of the Gwangju massacre in South Korea, addressing its lasting political impact. The conversation wraps up with insights into the revolutionizing landscape of American space travel, marking a pivotal shift towards privatization.

Lena Shipper, Seoul bureau chief, dives into the escalating tensions between Japan and South Korea over territorial disputes, revealing how this historical discord threatens regional stability. Simon Wright, The Economist's industry editor, discusses the staggering financial toll of the grounded Boeing 737 MAX, estimated at $4 billion per quarter. The conversation also touches on Greta Thunberg's influence on the emerging 'flight shame' movement in Sweden, highlighting shifting attitudes toward air travel and climate activism.