South Korea’s Lee Expands U.S. Alliance to Security, Tech and Economy

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung said his government will broaden its alliance with the United States to encompass security, technology and the economy, underscoring Seoul’s aim to deepen cooperation beyond traditional military ties. Lee made the remarks during his first summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington on 25 August, according to statements released after the meeting and accounts in South Korean and Japanese media. The two leaders confirmed plans to coordinate closely on supply-chain resilience, advanced manufacturing and joint responses to North Korea, signalling a reset of bilateral relations that had been strained by political turmoil in late 2024. Lee added that South Korea intends to take part in what he called the U.S. “manufacturing renaissance,” suggesting potential joint investments in semiconductors, batteries and other strategic sectors. While no new agreements were announced, both sides said working-level talks will follow to translate the broad agenda into concrete projects and policies.