South Korean President Lee Jae-myung Attends G7 Summit in Canada for Diplomatic Debut

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung made his diplomatic debut on the global stage by attending the G7 summit in Canada shortly after taking office, signaling South Korea's return to international diplomacy and democratic stability following domestic political unrest. His visit underscores a pragmatic foreign policy approach aimed at restoring and strengthening ties with traditional allies such as the United States and Japan, with potential trilateral talks planned alongside U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Lee's meetings at the summit are focused on addressing pressing economic and security issues, including ongoing U.S.-imposed tariffs on South Korean exports and defense cost-sharing for American troops stationed in South Korea. Discussions are expected to cover vulnerable sectors like semiconductors, automobiles, and shipbuilding, which are critical to South Korea's export-driven economy. Additionally, Lee may meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy if he attends, reflecting South Korea's engagement with broader global security concerns. Overall, Lee's G7 participation aims to enhance South Korea's international standing and contribute to resolving trade and geopolitical challenges through direct engagement with world leaders.