Overview

• Lee had planned to attend the June 24–25 summit in The Hague to meet U.S. President Donald Trump
• The announcement followed U.S. strikes on three nuclear sites in Iran, heightening volatility in the Middle East and shaping Seoul’s decision-making
• South Korea is participating as one of four Indo-Pacific partners without full NATO membership
• National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac said the government thoroughly reviewed domestic affairs before advising Lee against attending
• The decision underscores Lee’s cautious approach to foreign engagements amid a busy post-inauguration agenda