South Korea’s Lee Jae Myung is traveling to Washington for a crucial meeting with US President Donald Trump. Before the White House summit, he visited Tokyo to reset relations with Japan. That stop emphasized his strategy of strengthening trilateral cooperation among Seoul, Tokyo, and Washington. Moreover, it signaled his intent to broaden Korea’s diplomatic reach.
In Tokyo, Lee met Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and lawmakers from the Japan–Korea Parliamentarians’ Union. Both leaders pledged to act as close partners and expand shuttle diplomacy. Lee described Japan as Korea’s “optimal partner” and Ishiba as “a close friend.” Furthermore, they agreed to overcome sensitive historical disputes through forward-looking cooperation.
The Tokyo talks produced a joint statement and a detailed communiqué. Both documents outlined cooperation in artificial intelligence, demographic challenges, and youth exchanges. Analysts noted that Lee’s decision to visit Tokyo before Washington broke decades of tradition. It marked the first time a Korean president prioritized Japan ahead of the United States.
Observers saw this symbolism as deliberate. South Korea’s Lee Jae Myung wanted to show Washington that Seoul and Tokyo now act as united allies. Closer Korea–Japan ties also serve as leverage when negotiating with the Trump administration. Consequently, Lee entered the Washington talks with stronger diplomatic positioning.
In Washington, the summit with Trump will focus on two main issues: trade and security. Leaders will finalize details of a tariff deal that reduced US duties on Korean goods. In exchange, Seoul pledged $350 billion in investments and new commitments. Moreover, defense spending and the future of US troops in Korea will dominate the agenda.
Following the White House talks, Lee will attend a business roundtable with top executives. He will also deliver a speech at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Additionally, he plans to tour Hanwha Ocean’s Philadelphia shipyard, symbolizing bilateral cooperation in shipbuilding. These events highlight the economic dimension of his US visit.
The Trump administration continues to pressure Seoul to increase defense contributions. Lee must balance these demands with Korea’s domestic concerns. Analysts suggest he aims to highlight Korea’s investments as proof of its commitment. At the same time, he seeks to reduce friction over military costs.
Diplomats in Seoul describe his approach as “pragmatic diplomacy.” They argue that stronger Korea–Japan relations naturally reinforce Korea–US ties. Thus, Lee’s moves create a cycle of deeper trilateral cooperation. As regional tensions grow, this alignment strengthens stability across Northeast Asia.
