SEOUL: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in South Korea on Monday amidst a political storm, seeking to steer the country through turbulent waters while maintaining continuity in Washington’s policies. His visit comes at a delicate time, with South Korea grappling with the fallout from the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol.
Blinken’s visit, likely his last as the top US diplomat before the transition to President-elect Donald Trump, aims to reassure South Korea of the US’s commitment to its alliances, despite internal upheaval. The trip is also an important balancing act as Blinken must tread carefully, ensuring that his presence does not inadvertently favor the embattled South Korean administration.
Yoon, once seen as a rising star in Washington’s eyes, had forged strong ties with the US, helping smooth over long-standing tensions with Japan and positioning South Korea as a global player. However, his recent actions, including an attempt to impose martial law, have cast a shadow over his leadership.
Despite potential criticism from South Korea’s left, Blinken is expected to stay above the fray, focusing on critical issues like China and North Korea. He can frame the visit not as an endorsement of the current leadership but as a reaffirmation of the trilateral cooperation with Japan, especially on security concerns.
Blinken’s visit underscores the complexity of diplomacy, as he seeks to keep alliances intact while navigating a changing political landscape in both Seoul and Washington.
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