U.S. Ambassador says Korea-U.S. alliance faces turbulence over trade and security
U.S. Ambassador Michelle Steel said the partnership between the United States and South Korea is experiencing turbulence, citing disputes over security cooperation and trade issues such as the treatment of U.S. firms like Coupang.
During a dialogue hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea, U.S. Ambassador Michelle Steel characterized the relationship between the United States and the Republic of Korea as “turbulent,” emphasizing that alliances can weaken before strengthening. She noted that implementation of the October summit’s economic and security agreements—ranging from nuclear energy cooperation to shipbuilding and investment—has lagged, with issues like South Korean legal scrutiny of U.S.-listed e-commerce firm Coupang hindering momentum.
Washington has also curtailed intelligence sharing after Seoul’s unification minister disclosed a secret North Korean nuclear site, and the two sides remain divided on when to transfer wartime operational control. Steel called for fair treatment of American businesses in Korea, citing the joint fact sheet that promises a level playing field, and urged South Korea to assume a greater leadership role in the Indo-Pacific, reflecting a shift from a protection-dependent stance. Her comments signal rising strain in both security and trade aspects of the alliance.
Why it matters
The remarks expose growing strains in a key U.S. security and trade partnership, affecting regional stability and business conditions.
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