By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

Joseph Yun, U.S. Chargé d'Affaires to the Republic of Korea, stated on September 17 that the leaders of South Korea and the United States will meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Gyeongju.

Ambassador Yun, speaking at the ‘Korea-U.S. Alliance Conference’ held at the Westin Chosun Hotel in Jung-gu, Seoul, said in his keynote address, “The leaders of Korea and the U.S. held a successful summit last month,” adding, “And they will also meet at APEC in Gyeongju.”

He emphasized, “The Korea-U.S. alliance is stronger than ever, from the top leadership down.”

While the U.S. and South Korea have not officially announced President Donald Trump's attendance at the APEC summit, his participation is widely considered a foregone conclusion.

National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac stated at a meeting with the Korea Newspaper and Broadcasting Editors Association held at the Korea Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul, “We expect President Trump to visit South Korea, but it is not yet confirmed.”

Meanwhile, U.S. Chargé d'Affaires Yun stated, “The United States is making tremendous contributions not only to Southeast Asia but to the entire world,” adding, “We are particularly pleased with the contribution and role of the U.S. government in improving Korea-Japan relations.”

He also highlighted President Trump's recent mention of Korea-U.S. cooperation in the shipbuilding industry, emphasizing, “The United States recognizes Korea's high level of expertise in shipbuilding, automobiles, and various other industries.”

Acting Ambassador Yoon stated that strengthening people-to-people ties between the two countries is essential for this purpose. He noted, “South Korea currently sends the third-largest number of international students to the United States,” adding, “This contributes significantly to the U.S. economy.” This remark is interpreted as a response to the recent visa issues that have surfaced.

He further stated, “The relationship between the peoples of both countries is growing closer, and such people-to-people exchanges are extremely important for strengthening the ROK-U.S. alliance.”