‘Like a purge or revolution’: Trump questions South Korea’s political crisis before first summit with new president | World News
US President Donald Trump questioned events in South Korea hours before meeting its new president, Lee Jae Myung, at the White House.
On Monday, Trump posted on Truth Social: “WHAT IS GOING ON IN SOUTH KOREA? Seems like a Purge or Revolution. We can’t have that and do business there. I am seeing the new President today at the White House.”
It was not clear what he meant. South Korea has faced political turmoil since former president Yoon Suk Yeol imposed martial law last December. He was impeached parliament and removed the Constitutional Court in April.
Story continues below this ad
Why Lee is now in office?
Lee Jae Myung, a liberal politician, won a snap election in June after Yoon’s dismissal. Reuters noted that Lee had led efforts in parliament to overturn Yoon’s martial law decree.
Lee had previously lost to Yoon in 2022. AP reported that in January 2024, Lee survived an assassination attempt during a campaign event.
Lee’s office has said his talks with Trump will focus on cooperation in industries such as semiconductors, batteries and shipbuilding, as well as defence ties.
Trade and defence tensions
Trade and military costs are central to the summit. Washington and Seoul agreed last month to set tariffs on South Korean goods at 15% after Trump threatened higher rates. Automobiles remain South Korea’s main export to the United States.Story continues below this ad
Reuters said South Korea is concerned Trump will press for higher payments to keep US troops stationed in the country. Trump has often criticised Seoul, calling it a “money machine” that benefits from US protection.
Ahead of his US visit, Lee travelled to Japan for talks with Prime Miner Shigeru Ishiba. Reuters reported that the trip was seen as a sign of regional cooperation as both Tokyo and Seoul prepare to manage their ties with Washington and with China.
Lee arrived in Washington on Sunday and is scheduled to leave on Tuesday.
