South Korean President Lee Jae Myung held his first summit with US President Donald Trump in Washington. Both leaders discussed tariffs, defense spending, and the broader future of the alliance. The high-profile meeting highlighted how shifting East Asian dynamics influence the two nations’ partnership.
The summit followed the announcement of a major trade deal. Seoul and Washington agreed to reduce tariffs on most South Korean goods, including cars, to 15 percent. In return, South Korea pledged $350 billion in US-based investments selected by Washington. The package also included a commitment to buy $100 billion worth of US liquefied natural gas. This agreement underscored the scale of South Korea US alliance commitments in both trade and energy.
However, Lee stressed that Seoul cannot accept every demand from Washington. He noted that rising nationalism requires stronger protection of national interests. He also emphasized that South Korea stands as a sovereign nation with its own responsibilities. His remarks signaled a firm stance in negotiations while reinforcing the South Korea US alliance as a foundation.
Speculation grew that Washington may push for more access to Korea’s agricultural market. Lee responded that the trade deal already received direct approval from both presidents. Therefore, he stated that reopening negotiations would undermine the credibility of the agreement. This position further demonstrated Seoul’s determination to protect its commitments under the South Korea US alliance.
Lee also addressed the concept of strategic flexibility regarding US troops stationed in Korea. He acknowledged the demand but made clear that Seoul struggles to concede. Nevertheless, he predicted that interpretations of alliance modernization will narrow through dialogue. According to Lee, negotiations require bridging differences, and the atmosphere remains less tense than expected.
Defense cost-sharing also surfaced as a likely agenda item, though Lee avoided giving detailed remarks. He also declined to comment on revising the US-Korea Agreement for Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation, which governs uranium enrichment and nuclear fuel reprocessing. His cautious approach suggested that sensitive energy issues may require separate discussions.
Before arriving in Washington, Lee met Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in Tokyo. He described the stopover as a strategic step to strengthen trilateral ties among Seoul, Tokyo, and Washington. He explained that engaging Japan first would provide momentum for cooperation among the three allies. His decision broke long-standing precedent but underscored his practical approach.
The summit between Lee and Trump marked their first formal meeting. Despite an earlier canceled encounter, this session offered both leaders a chance to reset relations. The outcomes of this summit may shape the direction of security and trade for years to come.
