The article discusses the criticism leveled by South Korea’s People Power Party against President Lee Jae-myung for his decision not to attend the NATO summit scheduled to be held in the Netherlands on the 24th. The opposition argues that this decision results in missed opportunities both in terms of security cooperation and economic benefits, labeling it as a self-imposed diplomatic isolation.
Kim Geon, an opposition member of the National Assembly’s Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee, emphasized the importance of coordination with ally and partner countries amid rising tensions in the Middle East and questions the domestic issues urgent enough to skip such an important international stage.
The presidential office has stated that multiple domestic issues and uncertainties regarding the Middle East situation influenced President Lee’s decision.
The United States’ recent strike on an Iranian nuclear facility has heightened tensions in the Middle East. Some criticize that skipping the summit misses an opportunity to better understand the current international dynamics, particularly the US administration’s stance and the reactions of NATO member countries.
Critics also note potential impacts on security, as the US’s involvement could directly affect South Korea-US security issues. The NATO summit is seen as a valuable platform for discussions on pressing issues like the Russia-Ukraine war, North Korean military threats, and defense expenses.
Economically, missing the summit could affect defense exports to European countries and the ability to strategize US-South Korea tariff negotiations. Concerns were raised that this decision aligns with prioritizing relations with China and Russia over the country’s alliances, potentially making South Korea appear as a weaker link to the US allies.
Na Kyung-won, a member of the People Power Party, expressed concern on social media, suggesting that avoiding participation might cause South Korea to be viewed as an untrustworthy partner, which could bring security and economic repercussions.