WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump revealed on Tuesday that he and South Korea's acting President, Han Duck-soo, engaged in a discussion about Seoul's financial contributions towards the United States' military protection of South Korea during their first phone call since Trump's inauguration in January. The conversation touched upon several critical topics, including South Korea's trade surplus with the U.S., LNG purchases, and shipbuilding cooperation.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the call was significant as it came shortly after South Korea's Constitutional Court removed President Yoon Suk Yeol from office due to his martial law imposition in December. Trump shared details of the call on social media, highlighting discussions on trade, defense payments, and potential joint ventures, including an Alaska pipeline project.
The discussions raised speculation about potential renegotiations of the defense cost-sharing deal under which South Korea is set to increase its payments for the U.S. military presence. Trump previously criticized the existing agreement, stating that South Korea should be paying more for the U.S. Forces Korea.
South Korea is currently dealing with new U.S. tariffs, as Trump recently announced reciprocal tariffs affecting South Korean exports. This development adds pressure on the Asian nation to address economic and trade issues with the U.S.
The energy sector emerged as a focal point for bilateral cooperation, with Trump expressing interest in South Korea's involvement in the Alaska LNG project. This initiative aligns with Trump's strategy to bolster America's energy dominance.
The phone call between Trump and Han marked the first high-level communication between the two nations since Trump's presidency began. The discussions were crucial amid the political and diplomatic uncertainties in Seoul following President Yoon's impeachment and the temporary suspension of Han as acting president.
The engagement reflects ongoing efforts by both nations to address shared concerns and strengthen their partnership, despite the current political dynamics in South Korea.