President Lee downplays Trump-Kim meeting likelihood but supports peace efforts amid U.S. tariff demands

President Lee Jae-myung expressed cautious optimism about the possibility of a South Korea-U.S. tariff agreement being reached at the Gyeongju Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, APEC, summit meeting later this month, stating, "It seems considerable time and effort will be needed to adjust and correct differences between the two sides," adding, "I believe we will eventually reach a reasonable outcome that can be sufficiently understood rationally."

In a CNN interview released on the 23rd, President Lee said, "Because we are allies and share common sense and rationality," emphasizing, "I trust the rationality of the U.S.," and "I believe the two countries will ultimately reach a reasonable outcome that both can accept."

Amid President Donald Trump's demand for a $350 billion 'advance' payment within his term, until January 2029, the South Korean side is continuing final negotiations to ease the demands. CNN noted, "President Lee is maintaining a cautious attitude to avoid provoking President Trump," adding, "Even when faced with unreasonable demands, he knows he must somehow appease President Trump and offer praise."

President Lee downplayed the likelihood of President Trump meeting with north korean leader Kim Jong-un on the sidelines of the Gyeongju APEC summit, but stated, "If the leaders of the U.S. and North Korea were to meet unexpectedly, I think it would be a good thing." He continued, "I also believe President Trump wants to achieve world peace," explaining, "This is why I asked President Trump to take on the role of a peace maker."

When asked what message he would send to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un if he were watching the interview, President Lee replied, "I would say that meeting and talking with the other party would be the first step in resolving many problems."

President Lee Jae-myung Cautiously Optimistic on South Korea-U.S. Tariff Talks