Seoul: U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments aboard Air Force One on October 24 have stirred apprehension regarding potential shifts in policy toward North Korea’s nuclear status. En route to Asia, Trump remarked that he considers North Korea “a kind of nuclear power.” This statement was made in response to a question about his openness to dialogue with Pyongyang if it insists on recognition as a nuclear-armed state. Trump also reiterated his “personal and good relationship” with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the official U.S. position remains focused on the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. Trump’s latest remarks have sparked concerns that they might be an attempt to entice Kim to an unannounced meeting during Trump’s planned visit to Korea on October 29. Trump expressed his willingness to meet with Kim, stating, “If Kim Jong-un wants to meet, I’m open to it.”
These developments have raised fears that Trump’s personal objectives could lead to a de facto acknowledgment of North Korea’s nuclear status. During the Supreme People’s Assembly last month, Kim indicated that if the United States accepts the reality of North Korea’s nuclear capabilities, renewed dialogue could be possible. Pyongyang might interpret Trump’s “nuclear power” comment as an indication that its demands are being met.
Trump, who often emphasizes his contributions to resolving international conflicts, may view the North Korean issue as an opportunity to enhance his legacy and potentially secure a Nobel Peace Prize. If his visit results in a surprise meeting and a resumption of dialogue with North Korea, that could be seen as a positive development. However, if this comes at the cost of the U.S. tacitly acknowledging North Korea’s nuclear arsenal, it could reignite nuclear tensions on the Korean Peninsula and potentially trigger a “nuclear domino” effect across Northeast Asia.
It is crucial that Trump’s personal ambitions do not compromise international security or regional nuclear stability. Any discussions between Washington and Pyongyang must be rooted in the principle of complete denuclearization. The Korean government must clearly communicate these concerns to Washington and prevent a scenario where Seoul is sidelined in U.S.-North Korea engagements.
President Lee Jae Myung is set to meet Trump on October 29, with key issues such as trade negotiations and revisions to the bilateral nuclear cooperation agreement on the agenda. The North Korean nuclear issue should be addressed as a core security priority. Building on the strong alliance, President Lee’s summit with Trump should explore how the U.S. can lead as a “peacemaker,” with Korea supporting this role as a “pace maker.” The Korean government must use the remaining days to thoroughly prepare for the summit and turn it into a milestone for strengthening the alliance.