Report

How South Korea can balance its US commitments with global engagement

This report from UK think tank Chatham House examines the key foreign policy challenges for the Lee government.

Following the impeachment of former president Yoon Suk Yeol, South Korea’s new government faces significant challenges in stabilizing the country’s regional and global engagement – particularly in the context of a transactional US government and increasingly assertive China. Since coming into office, the administration of President Lee Jae-myung has emphasized the need for continuity in foreign policy priorities, though there are indications that areas such as inter-Korean relations may see a change in approach.

This research paper argues that while the US–South Korea alliance is vital, Seoul should look to deepen engagement with other partners, for example through the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, to strengthen the country’s global standing.