Foreign Ministry on US Ambassador's 'Turbulence' Remark: "Process Needed to Manage Differences"

▲ U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Michelle Steel

Regarding U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Michelle Steel's remarks on "turbulence" in South Korea-U.S. relations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that differences can arise between nations and that a process to manage them is necessary.

An official from the foreign ministry said, "Over the past 70-plus years, the South Korea-U.S. alliance has continuously evolved in line with changing environments, and the two countries are currently communicating closely at all levels, striving to develop the alliance in a more mutually beneficial and future-oriented direction."

The official continued, "The South Korea-U.S. alliance is the linchpin of our diplomacy, and we aim to continuously upgrade it," adding, "However, differences are inevitable between nations, and a process of narrowing and managing those differences is also necessary."

"We also understand that Ambassador Steel made her remarks in the context that South Korea and the United States are working through this process to build an even stronger alliance," the official added.

Ambassador Steel said yesterday (October 21) at a luncheon meeting hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) that South Korea and the United States are experiencing "a kind of turbulence."

She also called China "the greatest threat in the Indo-Pacific region" and emphasized the need for close cooperation between South Korea and the United States.

Regarding Ambassador Steel's remarks on China, the ministry official refrained from making a direct assessment, saying, "We would like to refrain from commenting on the U.S. ambassador's assessment."

However, the official stated, "Based on the understanding that peace and stability in the region are crucial to our national interest, the government will closely communicate and cooperate with allies and partners, including the United States."

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