Pragmatic autonomy push: Lee Jae Myung backs open, values-based cooperation among middle powers while preserving existing alliances and the rules-based order.
Alliance recalibration: Lee says South Korea will take greater defense responsibility while evolving the US alliance into a broader strategic partnership.
Macron summit agenda: Lee and Emmanuel Macron are set to discuss security, artificial intelligence, nuclear energy, economic cooperation and cultural ties in Paris.
Hormuz options weighed: Seoul is reviewing possible contributions to a France-UK-led maritime mission protecting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, but no decision has been made.
Defense constraints: Any Korean military deployment would require National Assembly approval and must account for readiness against North Korea.
North Korea outreach: Lee seeks to revive dialogue with Pyongyang and act as a “pacemaker” for renewed US-North Korea talks aimed at curbing nuclear expansion.
dagyumji@heraldcorp.com
