South Korea establishes commission to prepare for Trump's return

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has urged the establishment of consultative bodies for finance, trade, and industry to prepare for the potential impact of US President Donald Trump's return to office. 

Yoon made this request during an economic and security meeting with ministers and senior aides, focusing on preparations ahead of Trump’s potential inauguration in late January, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

"International markets have already begun responding based on anticipated policy directions even before the new US administration takes office, so the government should monitor the markets closely and ensure thorough preparations," Yoon stated.  

He highlighted that the policy changes under the new US administration could lead to significant shifts in both the global economy and security landscape.

"Consequently, this will directly impact our economy and security, so thorough preparations are essential," he added.  

Yoon expressed optimism about the potential for positive growth in the shipbuilding and petrochemical sectors under Trump's energy policies and emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation in advanced industries such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum technology.  

During a phone call with Yoon, Trump conveyed the US interest in collaborating with South Korea in the shipbuilding industry, particularly in naval shipbuilding, exports, and maintenance.  

"In defense, based on our robust South Korea-US alliance, we must maintain a strong deterrent against North Korea and be prepared to lead in promoting genuine peace and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region," Yoon stated, noting that significant structural changes in security could occur. 

A second Donald Trump administration is likely to bring changes and unpredictability to the US-South Korea alliance, potentially increasing pressure on Seoul to shoulder a larger share of the responsibilities as a US ally.  

Another critical issue will be how Trump plans to approach North Korea's denuclearization, particularly amid growing doubts about Washington's commitment to this goal, as well as his stance on Russia's war in Ukraine, where North Korean troops have been sent to assist Moscow.  

Yoon mentioned that he and Trump agreed to meet soon for further discussions during their phone call.

By Naila Huseynova