South Korean foreign minister discusses upcoming APEC summit, elusive US trade deal and North Korea

Key Concepts

• APEC Leaders Summit: Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.
• State Visits: Formal visits by heads of state.
• Balancing Relations: South Korea's strategy to manage relationships with both the US and China.
• Trust Building: Re-establishing confidence with the new South Korean government after past criticisms.
• Sanctions: Penalties imposed by one country on another, in this case, China on South Korean companies.
• Trade Deal: Agreement on terms of trade between countries.
• Security Agreement: Pact concerning defense and allied relations.
• Denuclearization: The process of eliminating nuclear weapons.
• DMZ: Demilitarized Zone, the border between North and South Korea.
• Shuttle Diplomacy: Frequent visits and negotiations between leaders of two countries.

South Korea's Diplomatic Strategy Amidst US and China Visits

South Korea is preparing for significant diplomatic engagements with both the United States and China. President Moon Jae-in will host US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping for separate meetings during the upcoming APEC leaders summit. Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha, in an exclusive interview with CNA's senior correspondent Limon Suk, outlined Seoul's approach to navigating these crucial relationships and addressing regional issues.

Balancing Relations with the US and China

Minister Kang emphasized that South Korea's strategy of "balancing" relations with the US and China does not imply a neutral stance but rather a flexible approach based on specific issues. "We don't mean that we are standing in the middle," she stated. "Depending on the issues, we can have cooperation with China but somewhat different ideas with China." This indicates a pragmatic foreign policy aimed at maximizing cooperation where possible while maintaining distinct positions when necessary.

Trust Building with China

A primary objective for South Korea during President Xi Jinping's visit is "trust building with the new government." Minister Kang acknowledged that the previous Korean government had faced criticism from China regarding its statements and foreign policy. She views the current visit as an opportune moment to "improve the relationship without losing our basic policy and identity."

Regarding recent Chinese sanctions on South Korean companies like Hano, Minister Kang expressed concern but remained optimistic about resolving such issues. "I am concerned about the specific sanction on this company, but we will be able to sort out such problems," she said, adding that China appears "fully aware of the need for cooperation with Korea as well."

Optimism on US Trade Deal

On the bilateral front with the United States, South Korea is actively negotiating a trade deal. Minister Kang expressed cautious optimism, stating, "It's a good possibility. So, I remain optimistic, but maybe cautiously."

Security and Defense Cooperation with the US

Significant progress has been made in security and defense discussions between South Korea and the US. Minister Kang indicated a "rough agreement on security" and that Seoul is seeking to sign a deal with the United States. Key areas of consensus include the "modernization of the Korean defense and enhancement of ally relationship." The possibility of signing such an agreement during the APEC summit was also raised, with efforts to "incorporate all the things including the tariff issues to be concluded as a single undertaking." However, she noted that these details need to be "finetune[d] before the visit of President Trump."

Re-evaluating the US Alliance

Minister Kang alluded to a shift in the US alliance, stating in parliament that "the US is not the same cooperative partner it once was." She cited an "unprecedented request from an ally" for financial investment, though she acknowledged the potential for a "win-win outcome." She believes the "traditional ally relationship has to be adjusted to the changing challenges of the world."

North Korean Denuclearization and Potential DMZ Meeting

South Korea's stance on North Korean denuclearization involves a phased approach. President Moon Jae-in's proposal for a "freeze" as a "first step in denuclearizing North Korea" has been discussed with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's team. The primary objectives are to "reduce the tension on the Korean peninsula," achieve a "permanent peace settlement," and ultimately "achieve dismantlement of nuclear that is denuclearization." These objectives are "very important to us and it's been keenly discussed with America."

The possibility of President Trump meeting with Kim Jong-un at the DMZ remains open. Minister Kang stated, "It remains a possibility and I still do not want to preclude a possibility that possibility." South Korea would fully support such a meeting and "try our best to make this meeting successful."

Relations with Japan

Regarding relations with Japan, which has a new Prime Minister, Minister Kang does not anticipate a "hulkish stance." She believes that President Moon Jae-in has "restored shuttle diplomacy" and that the new Japanese leader "will be able to live up to our expectations." She refuted the notion that President Moon would be "anti-Japan," stating it has "not been proven to be the case." In the context of a changing international landscape, she suggested that the Japanese leader might also recognize the "need for closer relationship with Korea."

Conclusion

South Korea is strategically positioning itself to leverage the upcoming APEC summit for significant diplomatic gains. The nation aims to foster trust with China, solidify its security alliance with the US, and advance the denuclearization of North Korea, all while adapting its foreign policy to evolving global dynamics. The emphasis is on pragmatic cooperation, maintaining national identity, and seeking mutually beneficial outcomes in its relationships with major global powers and regional neighbors.