Yoon Suk-yeol Faces Challenges Amidst US-China Tensions: Difficulties in Tariff Negotiations and Beijing's Outreach
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has completed his first month in office, emphasizing the need for "pragmatic diplomacy" to maintain the US-Japan-South Korea alliance while also seeking to rebuild relations with China and Russia.
However, recent developments indicate that achieving these goals may be increasingly difficult. First, China has extended an invitation to Yoon's government for a military parade on September 3, coinciding with news of US Secretary of State Rubio canceling his trip to South Korea. Furthermore, negotiations regarding tariffs and military spending with the United States have also become troublesome.
Moreover, Beijing's increased military activities in the Yellow Sea have made it even more challenging for Yoon's administration to find a balance between national security and international relations.
