South Korean President Lee Jae Myung highlighted the potential role of Trump Peacemaker during the U.S. leader’s upcoming Asia trip. He suggested Trump could help ease tensions on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue with North Korea.
Lee gave the interview to CNN, published Thursday, shortly after North Korea test-fired short-range ballistic missiles. This marked Pyongyang’s first military demonstration since Lee assumed office in June.
Trump plans a three-nation tour of Asia next week. His stops include Malaysia for the ASEAN summit, followed by Japan and South Korea for the APEC gathering.
Lee expressed hope the trip could promote engagement between the United States and North Korea. “I hope Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un will engage in dialogue,” Lee said. He added that Trump wants to achieve world peace, which is why he recommended the U.S. leader act as a Trump Peacemaker.
Officials note a meeting between Trump and Kim remains unlikely. However, Lee said it would be positive if the leaders unexpectedly met. Trump previously met Kim three times during his first term and signaled interest in resuming talks during his August summit with Lee.
On trade, Lee acknowledged differences with Washington but expressed confidence they could reach an agreement. He said the U.S. remains a key partner in promoting democracy and free market principles.
Recent talks in Washington focused on Seoul’s US$350 billion investment pledge and the possible reduction of U.S. tariffs on Korean products. Experts say North Korean missile tests and trade negotiations highlight the complex geopolitical landscape for Trump’s visit.
The APEC summit will be a central platform for dialogue with North Korea and finalizing trade agreements. Lee’s remarks underscore the hope that Trump can serve as a Trump Peacemaker and support constructive diplomacy.
