Jan 4, (V7N) – US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit South Korea next week for high-level discussions, as the country grapples with political instability following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, who is resisting arrest over his failed martial law declaration.

The visit, likely Blinken's last international trip before President-elect Donald Trump takes office, will also include stops in Japan and France, according to announcements from Washington and Seoul.

Focus on US-South Korea Alliance

Blinken will meet South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul on Monday to discuss the bilateral alliance, regional security, North Korea, and broader global challenges, Seoul's foreign ministry said.

The State Department described the agenda as emphasizing "critical cooperation" rooted in shared values but avoided direct references to South Korea's ongoing political crisis.

Political Turmoil in South Korea

The visit coincides with heightened tensions as investigators attempt to enforce an arrest warrant for President Yoon. His martial law decree on December 3, which lasted mere hours before being rescinded amid protests, led to his impeachment. The warrant expires on January 6, the same day Blinken will meet with Cho.

Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok, acting as interim president, has been navigating the crisis since assuming the role a week ago.

Regional and Global Priorities

After South Korea, Blinken will travel to Japan to highlight the progress in US-Japan relations, especially in defense and economic cooperation. The trip follows President Joe Biden's recent decision to block Nippon Steel's $14.9 billion acquisition of US Steel, citing union concerns.

The secretary's final stop will be France, where he will address key global issues, including the war in Ukraine and crises in the Middle East.

This trip underscores the Biden administration's commitment to reinforcing alliances, contrasting with Trump's prior criticism of US partners for perceived overreliance on Washington.

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