Alaska:U.S. Vice President JD Vance has highlighted "political dynamics" in South Korea as a factor contributing to the uncertainty surrounding Seoul's involvement in a proposed liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in Alaska. Vance made these remarks during an interview with Alaska's News Source on Tuesday while visiting the state.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Vance expressed determination to see the project progress, regardless of which South Korean government is in power or if collaboration with other nations, such as Japan, is necessary. He emphasized the demand for Alaskan gas due to its affordability and reliability compared to other sources.

The U.S. President Donald Trump recently announced several South Korean investment projects in the U.S. under a bilateral trade agreement, including the Alaska LNG project. However, South Korea's industry ministry stated that the project is still under review in terms of commercial viability and other factors.

Vance differentiated the current administration's support for the project from previous attempts, citing President Trump's commitment to fulfilling promises. He also noted the ongoing need to finalize project details with Seoul.

South Korean Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan acknowledged past challenges with the project due to its lack of commercial viability but noted its increased strategic importance following geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Kim stressed that thorough commercial evaluation remains essential before South Korea commits to the project.