South Korea’s concerns over Trump’s re-election despite proxy’s assurances

Park Chan-kyong

4 months ago

South Korea’s concerns over Trump’s re-election despite proxy’s assurances

Fred Fleitz, a former top Trump security official, visited Seoul to ease Korean concerns, dismissing reports of Trump demanding payment for US troop presence. Fleitz emphasized Trump’s friendship with South Korea and expected negotiations on the matter.

Fred Fleitz, an adviser to former US president Donald Trump, arrives at South Korea’s Incheon International Airport on Sunday. Photo: Yonhap/via EPA-EFE

Fleitz also dismissed the idea of South Korea pursuing nuclear weapons and stressed the importance of the US nuclear umbrella for the region. He hinted at Trump resuming diplomacy with Kim Jong-un if reelected, despite challenges in negotiations.

Moon Seong-mook of the Korea Research Institute for National Strategy warned of difficulties in reviving talks with North Korea under a Trump administration.

Sohn Yul of Seoul National University expressed concerns about Trump’s potential retrenchment from international affairs affecting allies’ defense commitments.

2bd2cc25 6310 4cef 86ff c3ce75d04e2f 25eff10f — American and South Korean soldiers pose for photos after joint live-fire exercises in Pocheon, South Korea, in March. Photo: Reuters

Yang Moo-jin of the University of North Korean Studies anticipated challenges and opportunities for South Korea under a second Trump term, based on potential trade pressure and diplomatic clashes.

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