South Korea’s Lee Jae Myung hails Trump as ‘peacemaker’, pushes for shipbuilding, manufacturing cooperation with US

In his first summit with US President Donald Trump on Monday (August 25), South Korean President Lee Jae Myung hailed Trump’s role as a “peacemaker,” saying he is “the only person who can solve the North Korean issue.”

Lee said the situation on the Korean peninsula had worsened since Trump left office and expressed hope that the US President would “open a new way to peace.” He underscored that Trump’s diplomacy had been pivotal in easing tensions with Pyongyang.

On the economic front, Lee voiced South Korea’s interest in expanding cooperation with the US in shipbuilding and advanced manufacturing, stressing the importance of joint efforts to strengthen industrial competitiveness and supply chains.

Trump threatens Seoul ahead of summit

Hours before meeting Lee Jae Myung on Monday, Trump posted on social media warning of a “Purge or Revolution” in South Korea. Trump later clarified that he was referring to alleged raids on churches and the US-operated Osan Air Base by South Korean authorities, noting, “I heard bad things. I don't know if it's true or not. I'll be finding out.”

Cordial meeting defuses tensions

Despite Trump’s initial warning, the in-person summit took a markedly friendly tone. Lee praised Trump’s accomplishments and pledged cooperation on peace efforts with North Korea. Speaking through an interpreter, Lee said: “I heard that you recently redecorated the Oval Office, and I would like to say that it looks very bright and beautiful. It has the dignity of America, and it symbolizes the new future and prosperity of America.”

Trump reciprocated, saying: “We've known each other and gotten along very well. It's a great honor to be with you and congratulations on your election. That was a big one, and we're with you 100%.”

Focus on Korean peace

Lee lauded Trump’s diplomacy with North Korea, suggesting that a Trump-led approach could reunify the Koreas. He even joked about the possibility of a Trump Tower in North Korea: “I believe you are the only leader who has made such accomplishments,” Lee said, noting that Trump’s policies had helped limit North Korea’s nuclear advances.

Trade and economic cooperation

The meeting also centered on economic matters. Lee and Trump discussed fleshing out a July trade deal, under which Seoul will invest hundreds of billions of dollars in the US, with tariffs on South Korean goods set at 15% after Trump threatened 25%. Lee emphasised joint initiatives in manufacturing and trade, while Trump suggested renegotiating US leases on Osan Air Base, saying he wanted “ownership of the land.”

Political turmoil in South Korea

Lee took office in June after ousting former president Yoon Suk Yeol, who imposed martial law last December. The summit comes after months of political instability in Seoul, including investigations into Yoon’s administration.

Trump also drew parallels with U.S. politics, asking about special prosecutor Jack Smith, who has led criminal cases against him, in reference to South Korea’s investigations.

Lee’s rise and symbolic visit

Lee, who grew up as a child laborer and overcame a physical disability, rose through South Korea’s political ranks to lead the liberal Democratic Party and win the presidency. His first foreign visits included a trip to Tokyo to meet Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, signaling unity amid US trade pressure.

Lee participated in a dinner with roughly 200 local Korean Americans in Washington. He is scheduled to depart Tuesday.