Washington: South Korea’s new ambassador to the United States has committed to employing “all embassy capacities” to address trade and other bilateral issues with the U.S. as she begins her tenure in Washington. Ambassador Kang Kyung-wha, who previously served as South Korea’s foreign minister from 2017 to 2021, made these statements upon arriving at Dulles International Airport.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kang emphasized that she will leverage her extensive experience, including her tenure as head of the Asia Society, to effectively manage her new responsibilities. Key issues include finalizing a substantial trade deal, resuming diplomatic efforts with North Korea, and resolving visa issues for Korean workers in the U.S.
Ambassador Kang highlighted the ongoing negotiations concerning the $350 billion investment fund pledged by Seoul as part of a trade framework with the previous U.S. administration. She expressed her commitment to ensuring a mutually beneficial outcome.
Kang also addressed the working-group discussions between Seoul and Washington aimed at resolving visa issues for Korean workers, following the detention of over 310 Korean workers in Georgia due to an immigration crackdown. She confirmed that the first meeting concluded positively and efforts are ongoing to establish a reliable visa program.
Prior to her departure for the U.S., Kang engaged with Hyundai Motor Group’s Executive Chair Euisun Chung. The discussions focused on the automotive industry’s struggle with a 25 percent auto tariff, pending negotiations for a reduction to 15 percent.
When asked about President Trump’s openness to talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, Kang reiterated South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s support for dialogue. She emphasized the importance of conveying this message and facilitating potential discussions between the U.S. and North Korea.
Finally, Kang addressed reports of Trump’s potential one-day visit to South Korea before the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, stating that discussions are ongoing to finalize a mutually satisfactory schedule.