SEOUL: Despite facing an unprecedented political crisis at home, South Korea’s acting President, Choi Sang-mok, reaffirmed on Friday (Jan 3) the country’s commitment to trilateral cooperation with the United States and Japan. His remarks came during a meeting with the US Ambassador to South Korea, Philip Goldberg, and the Commander of US Forces Korea, General Xavier Brunson, where they discussed the ongoing alliance and South Korea’s foreign policy moving forward.
Choi, who assumed the role of acting president after the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Dec 27, expressed confidence that South Korea’s foreign affairs and security policies would remain stable. “Despite the difficult situation, our foreign affairs and security policy will continue to be pursued based on the strong alliance with the United States without wavering,” he said in a statement.
The acting president emphasized the importance of ongoing cooperation between South Korea, the US, and Japan, particularly in the areas of security and regional stability. He urged for mutually active efforts to strengthen ties and ensure the continued success of trilateral collaboration.
South Korea has been in political turmoil since President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment over a controversial martial law order earlier in December. Yoon’s suspension has led to a tense standoff in which authorities attempted to arrest him due to an insurrection investigation tied to his martial law bid.
Choi’s government has maintained a focus on strengthening relationships with neighboring Japan, a key US ally in the region. Despite historical tensions, improving ties with Japan remains a crucial element of South Korea’s foreign policy under the current administration.