Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul met with reporters today (15th), stating that concerns about a diplomatic void have been allayed due to a phone call between U.S. President Joe Biden and acting President Han Duck-soo earlier this morning.
Earlier, acting President Han Duck-soo had a 16-minute phone conversation with U.S. President Joe Biden at 7:15 AM. During the call, Acting President Han emphasized that all future government affairs would be conducted strictly in accordance with the constitution and law. President Biden appreciated Han’s explanation, expressed his trust in Korean democracy, and reaffirmed that the ironclad South Korea-U.S. alliance remains unchanged.
There are concerns that under Acting President Han Duck-soo, following the impeachment motion’s passage, there might be limitations in diplomatic relations with allies and key partners like the U.S., especially as the upcoming Trump administration is expected to pressure on issues like defense cost-sharing and universal tariff application. This raises concerns about managing diplomatic relations without summit meetings.
Minister Cho held a press briefing to address these concerns, emphasizing that communication between South Korea and the U.S. has been ongoing and that there was a swift communication with President Biden immediately following the transition to the acting presidency. He noted that while it might take some time and effort to fully restore summit diplomacy, he expects normalization to occur in a relatively short period.
Minister Cho also mentioned the possibility of visiting the U.S. soon after the Trump administration takes office, if necessary. He expressed the need for face-to-face discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Tony Blinken despite having spoken to him over the phone, indicating plans to consult with the U.S. to arrange an early visit.
However, Minister Cho acknowledged the diplomatic setbacks caused by the aftermath of the Dec. 3 incident, admitting that international trust and expectations have been somewhat damaged and will require time and effort to restore. A senior foreign ministry official also noted that there had been some disruptions in network operations with the Trump side.
Regarding his resignation as the foreign minister, Cho hinted that he wouldn’t hesitate to step down if necessary, yet he emphasized his responsibility and could not abandon his duties.