Blinken Visits South Korea During Political Crisis

The U.S. Secretary of State aims to reinforce alliances and navigate political turmoil as South Korea's president faces impeachment and legal challenges.

• Antony Blinken begins his final overseas trip as U.S. Secretary of State with a visit to South Korea, Japan, and France from January 4-9, 2025.
• South Korea is in political upheaval following President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment and his failed attempt to impose martial law on December 3, 2024.
• Blinken is scheduled to meet South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul on January 6, the same day the warrant for Yoon's arrest expires after being blocked by presidential security forces.
• The visit emphasizes strengthening U.S.-South Korea relations, trilateral cooperation with Japan, and addressing regional challenges, including North Korea and China's influence.
• Blinken's trip also includes stops in Japan to review defense ties and in France to discuss European security and Middle East developments.

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Deutsche Welle Associated Press