In an effort to strengthen ties, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met with U.S. President Donald Trump amid concerns regarding potential tensions. Prior to their meeting, Trump posted a message on Truth Social questioning the situation in South Korea, alluding to a “Purge or Revolution,” which may refer to the prosecution of former President Yoon Suk Yeol.
During the Oval Office meeting, Trump frequently mentioned North Korea, despite Lee’s diplomatic approach intended to avoid confrontation. Lee’s team was particularly apprehensive due to Trump’s past criticism of South Korea regarding defense spending and trade practices, as well as Lee’s perceived skepticism towards the U.S. alliance and interest in closer relations with China. With these concerns in mind, Lee employed a flattering strategy, complimenting Trump on his rapport with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Lee’s outreach included suggestions to Trump about acting as a “peacemaker” for the Korean peninsula, recognizing Trump’s influence over Kim Jong Un, who has consistently rejected dialogue with South Korea. While Trump expressed enthusiasm for future discussions with Kim, the central question remains whether the North Korean leader is open to negotiations under new terms that would not require the relinquishing of nuclear capabilities.
On trade and military cooperation, the meeting yielded few concrete agreements. The U.S. tariffs on South Korean goods were reduced to 15%, aided by Seoul’s commitment to invest $350 billion in the U.S., yet no further commitments were made regarding tariffs or troop deployments.
Overall, the engagement emphasized the necessity for the economic alliance between the U.S. and South Korea, highlighting their interdependence in trade. Nonetheless, fundamental issues in defense and bilateral relations remain unresolved.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy5pdlgl64zo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss