US President Donald Trump touched down in Gyeongju, South Korea, for the APEC forum, wrapping up his Asia tour with a high-stakes meetup with ROK President Lee Jae-myung. Both leaders are eager to resuscitate a stalled US-ROK trade deal that's been on the back burner—even as officials warn a breakthrough this week is still up in the air.
Back in July, the two sides agreed to a deal that would soften painful US tariffs if South Korea commits to around $350 billion in fresh investments stateside. But hashing out how and where that money flows has hit a few roadblocks.
The vibe got a fun twist when President Lee presented Trump with a gold crown and the Grand Order of Mugunghwa sash—South Korea's top honor 🎖️. "I'd like to wear it right now," Trump joked at the National Museum, where the leaders held a working lunch complete with a "golden dessert" 🍰.
Lee used the lunch to reassure Trump that the ROK will boost defense spending—a key US ask—and even requested permission to reprocess nuclear fuel for submarine power. Right now, Seoul needs Washington's green light under existing agreements.
Looking ahead, Trump vowed to help "straighten out" tensions with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (the DPRK). While details remain sketchy, both sides say they're optimistic a final deal could land very soon.
Stay tuned as this US-ROK story unfolds—there's lots more at stake than just tariffs and investments!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
