Overview

• Donald Trump Jr. concluded closed-door meetings with approximately 20 leaders of South Korea’s largest conglomerates during his private visit to Seoul.
• The trip was arranged by Shinsegae Group Chairman Chung Yong-jin, leveraging personal ties to connect South Korean businesses with U.S. presidential influence.
• Discussions reportedly centered on trade challenges, including the 25% U.S. tariffs paused for 90 days, and potential partnerships in sectors like shipbuilding, defense, and energy.
• South Korean firms viewed the meetings as a rare opportunity to establish direct communication with a figure closely tied to President Trump’s administration.
• No meetings with South Korean government officials were scheduled, as the visit deliberately avoided formal diplomatic engagement.