Lee’s China Visit Scheduled for Early 2026 South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun announced that the ministry will arrange President Lee Jae Myung’s state visit to China in the first months of next year, aiming to steady bilateral ties while Seoul pursues dialogue with North Korea, China’s traditional ally and key economic partner [1][2]. The briefing emphasized that the visit is part of a broader diplomatic calendar that includes high‑level talks with Washington and Japan. Cho stressed that the timing will allow Seoul to capitalize on recent regional security dialogues.

Coordinated Summit with U.S. President Trump Planned Cho confirmed that a timely summit between President Lee and U.S. President Donald Trump will be organized for next year, building on agreements reached at the August and October summits [1][2]. The follow‑up will focus on advancing projects in nuclear‑powered submarines, civilian nuclear energy, and advanced shipbuilding. Both leaders intend to use the meetings to reinforce the security umbrella surrounding the Korean Peninsula.

U.S. Commits to Civil Nuclear Cooperation The United States pledged support for South Korea’s civil uranium enrichment and spent‑fuel reprocessing programs, underscoring peaceful applications of nuclear technology [1][2]. In addition, Washington reaffirmed its commitment to assist Seoul’s development of nuclear‑powered submarines, a cornerstone of the bilateral defense partnership. These commitments are framed as essential to South Korea’s energy independence and maritime deterrence.

Trilateral Diplomacy with Japan and Russia Continues Cho outlined ongoing shuttle diplomacy with Japan, maintaining a three‑way cooperation framework that includes the United States and seeks to involve China in selective initiatives [1][2]. The ministry will also keep necessary communication channels open with Russia to manage broader regional dynamics. This multilayered approach is intended to balance economic and security interests across East Asia.

Economic Integration Targets Include CPTPP and New Partnerships Seoul plans to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans‑Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and to forge bilateral economic partnerships with Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt [1][2]. These moves aim to diversify trade, attract investment, and reduce reliance on any single market. The economic agenda is presented as complementary to the diplomatic outreach toward Beijing and Washington.