[탄핵 가결 이후]
WP “Trump’s 2nd term, uncertainty in Korea grows”
asahi “betterment trend has an impact on Korea-Japan relations”
The U.S. White House announced on the 14th (local time) that President Joe Biden had a phone call with Prime Minister Han Deok-soo, who served as acting president after the passage of the impeachment bill against President Yoon Seok-yeol, and expressed gratitude for the resilience of Korea’s democracy and rule of law. U.S. Secretary of State Tony Blinken also said at a press conference on the same day, “I am ready to work with Acting President Han.“I strongly support the ironclad ROK-US alliance,” he said. However, foreign media such as the New York Times predicted that the power vacuum in Korea ahead of the inauguration of Donald Trump’s second administration would pose difficulties in relations with the United States and coordination of foreign and trade policies.
According to the White House, President Biden also said in the phone call that day, “Even during acting President Han’s term, the ROK-US alliance will serve as a ‘linchpin’ for peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.” The U.S. State Department also said in a separate statement, “The ROK-U.S. alliance has made great progress over the years, and we look forward to making even more progress together with Korea.”
Acting President Han is evaluated as having extensive diplomatic experience with the United States, including serving as ambassador to the United States from 2009 to 2012. Instantly after President Yoon declared martial law on the 3rd, the Biden administration, which had not been informed of this in advance, publicly criticized it, using unusually direct expressions such as ‘serious misjudgment’ and ‘grave concern’.Since the impeachment bill was passed, it is interpreted as a means to strengthen the acting system and prevent further confusion.
However, there are observations that it will be challenging for an acting president to communicate directly with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on the 20th of next month. The NYT diagnosed, “He lacks real influence to lead South korea, which is facing challenges such as the increasing North Korean nuclear threat and the ‘second Trump term.’” The Washington Post (WP) said, “Korea’s power vacuum could weaken its relationship with the United States and impair its ability to respond quickly to adjustments in foreign or trade policy,” and that Korea, which suffered impeachment during the inauguration of the Trump administration, It was pointed out that uncertainty will increase. Japan’s Asahi Shimbun pointed out that the future situation cannot be predicted, saying, “It seems inevitable that the suspension will have an impact on Korea-Japan relations, which were showing signs of improvement.”
Meanwhile, it was reported that the Korean Embassy in the United States held an emergency staff meeting presided over by Ambassador Cho Hyun-dong on this day and reviewed pending issues in each field to be discussed with the second Trump administration.
Reporter Hong Jeong-su [email protected]
Washington Correspondent Moon Byeong-gi [email protected]
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What are the potential impacts of south Korea’s political instability on it’s relationship with the United States?
Title: Navigating Uncertainty: An Interview on Korea’s Political Landscape Post-Impeachment
interviewer (Time.news Editor): Thank you for joining us today.With recent developments in South Korean politics—specifically the passage of the impeachment bill against President Yoon seok-yeol—many people are left wondering about the implications for Korea and its relationship with the United States. We have with us an expert on east Asian geopolitics and foreign relations, Dr. Emily Park. Welcome, Dr. Park!
Dr. Emily Park: Thank you for having me.It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. The U.S. White House, after the impeachment, seemed supportive of Acting President Han Deok-soo. However, there are speculations about the uncertainty this creates for Korea, especially with the potential re-inauguration of Donald Trump. Can you elaborate on these concerns?
Dr. Park: Absolutely. The transition period is always a vulnerable time in any nation, particularly when there’s a power vacuum. President Biden’s overtures to Acting President Han are assuring, but they underscore a temporary arrangement. The New York Times highlighted that Han may struggle to assert influence as South Korea faces significant challenges like North Korea’s nuclear threats. Trump’s possible return adds another layer of unpredictability, given his past rhetoric and actions toward Korea.
Editor: The U.S. State Department has emphasized the ROK-U.S. alliance as a “linchpin” for peace. How do you think this sentiment aligns with the political instability we’re witnessing in Korea?
Dr. Park: The “linchpin” notion certainly indicates the U.S.’s commitment to maintaining stability in the region, which is critical. However, without a strong and stable government in South Korea—especially during an acting presidency—this partnership could face strains. A weak signal from Korea could mislead U.S. policymakers in terms of foreign trade strategies and navigating North Korea.
Editor: Given Acting President han’s diplomatic background, do you believe he will be effective in managing these international dynamics?
Dr. Park: Han’s experience,particularly as a former ambassador to the U.S., does give him some advantage in understanding American perspectives. However,acting leaders often have limited authority,especially in contentious international situations. His effectiveness will largely depend on the incoming administration in the U.S. and their willingness to work with an acting president.
Editor: Speaking of the U.S. administration, the article mentions Biden’s remarks on continued collaboration despite the current situation.How significant are these relationships as we look towards a future with potential Trump policies?
Dr. Park: The importance of maintaining strong bilateral relations cannot be overstated, especially given Trump’s unpredictable foreign policy approach. Biden’s comments are reassuring but they need to be backed by consistent actions, both from Korea and the U.S. If Trump does prioritize his past policies, it could complicate engagements, particularly if South Korea finds itself in an interim leadership phase.
Editor: With Japan potentially watching closely, how do you see Korea’s domestic challenges affecting Japan-Korea relations?
Dr. Park: The situation is delicate. Asahi Shimbun has pointed out that the future is uncertain. Both countries have historically had a rocky relationship, and any perception of weakness in korea could impact Japan’s strategic calculations concerning regional security, trade, and historical grievances. Cooperation may be stalled if Korea is seen as politically unstable.
Editor: In your view, what steps should Korea take to mitigate this uncertainty and strengthen its international standing during this transitional period?
Dr.Park: Firstly, Korea must stabilize its political landscape—solidifying democratic institutions and ensuring clear interaction with its allies, particularly the U.S. Secondly, engaging with regional powers like Japan can foster greater collaboration and signal unity despite internal struggles. Lastly, reinforcing diplomatic channels with both the current U.S. administration and potential future leadership will be crucial in navigating the uncertain waters ahead.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Park, for your insights into this complex and evolving situation. It’s clear that the coming months will be pivotal for Korea, especially in a shifting geopolitical landscape.
Dr. Park: It was my pleasure.The next few months will indeed be critical, and I hope for a stable and positive path forward for Korea and its international partners.
Editor: Thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay informed and engaged, as we continue to report on these vital affairs.