Seoul backs Trump's North Korea diplomacy push, seeks security assurances

SEOUL — South Korea's national security adviser stated on Friday that the country supports efforts by the United States to re-engage in dialogue with North Korea, provided that any diplomatic process addresses Seoul's core concerns.

The South Korean official emphasised that while welcoming Washington's diplomatic overtures, Seoul must ensure its security posture is not compromised during negotiations. The statement reflects ongoing concerns in Seoul that high-level US-North Korea talks could proceed without adequate consultation or consideration of South Korean interests.

The remarks underscore the delicate balance Seoul faces in supporting American-led diplomacy while protecting its own strategic position on the Korean peninsula. South Korea has long sought a seat at the negotiating table in any major discussions concerning North Korea's nuclear programme and regional security arrangements.

As Trump's administration signals renewed interest in nuclear negotiations with Pyongyang, Seoul's emphasis on maintaining its security standing suggests South Korea intends to play an active role in shaping any diplomatic outcomes that could affect the peninsula's security architecture.