South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has underscored the need for South Korea to prioritize its national interests in foreign policy, emphasizing the importance of managing disagreements with allies through dialogue and diplomacy. Speaking at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Lee acknowledged that while differences between allies like South Korea and the United States are inevitable, they should not be allowed to undermine broader relations.
President Lee highlighted the significance of the South Korea–United States alliance, describing it as a central pillar of South Korea’s diplomatic efforts. He insisted that the country must conduct its diplomacy confidently as a sovereign nation while continuing to enhance cooperation with Washington and other major powers. His comments come amidst reported friction between Seoul and Washington over issues such as intelligence-sharing arrangements, visa delays, and communication with senior US officials.
These tensions have sparked debate within South Korea, with opposition politicians expressing concerns about the current state of bilateral relations. South Korean Ambassador to the United States Kang Kyung-wha acknowledged challenges in securing high-level communication with the White House. However, she noted that discussions between relevant agencies have made progress on intelligence-related matters.
Despite these issues, President Lee remains firm in his belief that differences should be addressed through sustained engagement. He reiterated that the alliance with the United States remains pivotal, while the South Korean government works diligently to safeguard its national interests.