US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in crisis-riven South Korea on January 6, 2025, for what is expected to be his final visit as the top US diplomat before the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. Blinken's objective is to subtly encourage continuity in policy while navigating the complex political landscape shaped by the suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol, who faces arrest following his controversial attempt to impose martial law on December 3.

During his trip, Blinken will meet with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, coinciding with the expiration of a warrant for Yoon's arrest. This visit underscores President Joe Biden's commitment to strengthen alliances amid shifting political dynamics in the region. Following his stop in Seoul, Blinken will head to Tokyo, emphasizing the importance of US-South Korea relations while maintaining a balance with Japan, a fellow ally with a often sensitive history with Korea.

Yoon had previously been a favored partner for the Biden administration, known for his attempts to mend ties with Japan and his ambitions for renewed South Korean influence in global debates. His participation in significant diplomatic events, such as a three-nation summit with the US and Japan, and his charismatic public appearances, contributed to his standing in Washington.

Experts, including former US intelligence officer Sydney Seiler, believe that while Blinken may encounter criticism from the South Korean left, he possesses a stature that allows him to sidestep domestic tensions. "Blinken can dodge a lot of these domestic South Korean landmines relatively easily," Seiler mentioned, highlighting Blinken's ability to focus on regional challenges concerning China and North Korea.

The State Department, while not explicitly referencing the political turmoil, indicated that Blinken's discussions will aim to preserve the trilateral cooperation with Japan, particularly in enhancing intelligence sharing related to North Korea.

Blinken's visit is significant, coming at a time when both the US and South Korea face uncertainty, particularly with Trump expected to assume office again on January 20. The Biden administration has made efforts to engage with a spectrum of South Korean politicians as the nation confronts critical leadership questions amid Yoon's controversial decisions regarding martial law.

Progressive opposition leader Lee Jae-myung has emerged as a contentious figure, advocating for a diplomatic approach with North Korea while being critical of US military installations like the THAAD missile defense system. His differing stance contrasts with the preferences of both Biden and Trump, reflecting broader ideological divides within South Korea regarding US policy and historical Japanese relations.

Blinken articulated a hopeful narrative regarding South Korea's political resilience amidst these crises, stating that "Korea is one of the most powerful stories in the world about the emergence of democracy and democratic resilience." His visit presents both challenges and opportunities for US policy in ensuring stability in one of its key alliances in Asia.

For more details, visit the original articles here: South China Morning Post, Voice of America, and Le Monde.