Kim Minseok: "Autonomy and Alliance Are Not Contradictory... Korea-U.S. Relations Must Become Even Stronger"

Ambassador Steel Responds:
"National Assembly Symbolizes Korea’s Economic Growth"

Kim Minseok, leader of the Democratic Party, stated during a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Korea Michelle Steel held at the National Assembly on the 15th, "The United States and South Korea have been steadfast allies thus far, and I believe our alliance must become even stronger going forward."

Kim continued, "Throughout every stage of Korea's modernization, democratization, and industrialization, the United States has been a reliable neighbor," adding, "I also believe that Korea developing its own autonomous capabilities does not contradict deepening the alliance with the U.S. in any way."

Kim Minseok, leader of the Democratic Party, is posing while meeting with Michelle Steel, U.S. Ambassador to Korea, on the 15th at the National Assembly Party Leader's Conference Room. Photo by Dongju Yoon

He went on to say, "I hope that during Ambassador Steel's tenure, the relationship between South Korea and the United States will develop even further. When I visited the United States, both U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance repeatedly showed interest in North Korea. I hope that U.S.-North Korea relations also improve, which would in turn help advance peace on the Korean Peninsula."

Ambassador Steel remarked, "I also served as a lawmaker, so perhaps I am somewhat biased, but I believe the National Assembly is an institution that symbolizes Korea's history of economic growth and democratic progress."

Ambassador Steel also noted, "On August 21, I had the opportunity to meet Speaker Cho Jeong-sik during my introductory visit, and I had a wonderful time at the National Assembly. Looking out over Yeouido and the Han River, I was truly impressed." In response, Kim replied, "Yeouido and the Han River are in my district. Thank you for noticing."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.