Seoul: President Yoon Suk Yeol has called for the establishment of consultative bodies in finance, trade, and industry to brace for the ramifications of a possible Donald Trump administration. Yoon convened an economic and security meeting with ministers and senior aides to discuss strategic preparations should Trump assume office by late January. According to Yonhap News Agency, Yoon highlighted the need for close monitoring of international markets, which are already reacting to anticipated shifts in U.S. policy. He stressed that the incoming U.S. administration could significantly alter the global economic and security landscape, directly impacting South Korea. Yoon expressed optimism about potential growth for South Korea's shipbuilding and petrochemical sectors under Trump's energy policies. He emphasized enhancing cooperation in advanced industries such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum technology. During a recent phone call, Trump conveyed the U.S.'s interest in collaborating wi th South Korea on naval shipbuilding, exports, and maintenance. Yoon underscored the importance of maintaining a strong deterrence against North Korea and promoting peace in the Asia-Pacific region amidst possible security changes. Speculation surrounds the potential shifts in U.S.-South Korea relations, with concerns about increased pressure on Seoul to share more of the alliance's financial burdens. Trump's approach to North Korea's denuclearization and the situation in Ukraine remains under scrutiny. Yoon and Trump agreed to meet soon for further discussions. Yoon instructed the government to engage Korean companies actively, ensuring policies align with national interests, as stated by Sung Tae-yoon, chief of staff for policy. Meeting attendees analyzed Trump's proposed tariffs and energy policies to identify business opportunities and mitigate risks for Korean firms. They also discussed defense cost-sharing, North Korea's troop deployment to Russia, and bilateral alliance issues. Principal Deputy Nat ional Security Adviser Kim Tae-hyo reported that discussions centered on enhancing collaboration with the U.S. to bolster deterrence against North Korea and improve security and defense industry cooperation, leveraging advanced industries and technology. Observers anticipate Trump may seek to renegotiate the defense cost-sharing agreement, potentially increasing Seoul's financial commitments for U.S. troop deployment in South Korea.
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