Under the Lee Administration
A Shift in Tone
With the inauguration of President Lee Jae-myung, Seoul has pivoted from the "unconditional rapprochement" of the previous administration to a policy of "Principled Diplomacy." While acknowledging the necessity of economic and security cooperation, the new administration demands renewed accountability from Tokyo regarding historical grievances and the Fukushima water release.
Total Trade (Current)
$76.6B
Outlook: Reviewed
Diplomatic Friction
High
History Resurfaced
GSOMIA Status
Active
Pragmatic Ties
Public Approval
Mixed
Polarized Views
The New Political Landscape
The transition of power has brought a sharp contrast in diplomatic philosophy between the administration and the opposition.
President Lee (Government)
- ➜ "History First": Rejects "Third-Party Reimbursement" for forced labor; demands direct compensation.
- ➜ Fukushima: Maintains strict opposition; considering seafood import review.
- ➜ Review: "Reset" policy to ensure agreements are balanced.
Opposition (Conservative)
- ➜ Warning: Fears reopening disputes will trigger a new "Trade War" hurting semiconductors.
- ➜ Security: Warns that straining ties weakens the ROK-US-JP alliance.
Economic Interdependence
Trade recovered significantly in 2023, but the "Lee Effect" introduces uncertainty for future projections.
Projected Impact
Analysts predict a potential "cooling" effect on tourism if diplomatic rhetoric escalates into boycotts.
Security Pragmatism
Even with the diplomatic reset, the administration acknowledges the North Korean threat. GSOMIA persists with a "transactional" tone.
Pragmatic Defense
Distinguishing between "Historical Justice" and "Necessary Defense." Radar data sharing continues.
Public Sentiment
65% of supporters agree with maintaining security ties despite historical grievances (Two-Track Approach).
Geopolitical Hotspots
Key areas of friction: Dokdo islets sovereignty and East Sea waters (Fukushima concerns).
Timeline: From Thaw to Review
The "Yoon Thaw"
Restoration of GSOMIA, reinstatement of "White List," and the Camp David summit. Relations reached a peak.
Lee Jae-myung Elected
Campaign focused on restoring national dignity. Promises a total review of bilateral deals.
The "Reset" Begins
President Lee halts third-party reimbursement. Demands renewed talks with Tokyo.