Washington: A leading foreign policy adviser to South Korea’s Democratic Party (DP) presidential candidate, Lee Jae-myung, emphasized the importance of strengthening the alliance between Seoul and Washington, as well as enhancing trilateral cooperation with Japan, during discussions with senior White House officials. This statement came amid talks concerning various pressing issues including new U.S. tariffs on South Korea, bilateral trade, and security threats from North Korea.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Hyun-chong, the former trade minister, conveyed Lee’s stance on upgrading the South Korea-U.S. alliance and the necessity for stronger trilateral relations involving Japan. Kim’s comments were made against the backdrop of speculation that a liberal administration in Seoul might shift its foreign policy focus towards China and historical issues with Japan, contrasting with a conservative preference for U.S. alliances and closer ties with Japan.
Kim underscored the need for South Korea and Japan to
enhance cooperation, drawing a parallel to the historical Choshu-Satsuma alliance in Japan. This partnership, formed in 1866, was crucial in overthrowing the Edo shogunate, indicating the level of collaboration Kim envisions for the current geopolitical climate.
The discussions at the White House also addressed tariff and trade issues. South Korea is actively seeking exemptions from the Trump administration’s 25 percent “reciprocal” tariffs and other sectoral duties, including those on automobiles and auto parts. With Trump’s temporary pause on these tariffs extending until July 8, Kim highlighted the need for a negotiation outcome that respects South Korea’s free trade agreement (FTA) with the U.S.
Kim pointed out that the 25 percent reciprocal tariff is the highest among U.S. FTA partners and questioned its appropriateness. Highlighting South Korea’s trade surplus with the U.S., primarily from autos and auto parts, Kim stressed the importance of addressing this tariff issue effectively.
Regarding North K
orea, Kim aligned with the U.S. stance, condemning the North’s recent short-range ballistic missile launches as violations of U.N. Security Council resolutions. He advocated for South Korea to enhance its asymmetric conventional weapons capabilities and maintain readiness for potential responses.
When questioned about possible troop reductions of the U.S. Forces Korea, Kim refrained from commenting. Having served in various roles during previous liberal administrations, including as a U.N. ambassador, Kim’s insights reflect a significant diplomatic perspective in shaping South Korea’s future foreign relations.