President Yoon Emphasizes Economic Cooperation with U.S. and Autonomous Defense

President Yoon Suk Yeol stated on June 11 that South Korea aims to strengthen economic cooperation with the United States while enhancing its autonomous defense capabilities in the security sector.

In an interview with the Italian daily 'Corriere della Sera,' Yoon criticized the so-called 'balancing approach' of cooperating with the U.S. on security while engaging economically with China, saying, "This approach has lost its validity." The interview coincided with Yoon's state visit to Italy.

Yoon emphasized that expanding economic cooperation with the U.S. in technologically advanced sectors is crucial for enhancing South Korea's industrial competitiveness.

Regarding China, he acknowledged it as a key trading partner and an essential player in supply chains, but noted, "It is undeniable that competition between the U.S. and China is intensifying." He attributed this to China's ongoing advancements in industrial competitiveness and high-tech capabilities.

In terms of security, Yoon reaffirmed that the U.S. alliance remains a fundamental pillar of South Korea's foreign policy. However, he stressed the need to evolve this alliance in light of new realities, stating, "We must enhance our autonomous capabilities."

He defined autonomous capabilities as the ability to take direct responsibility for national security without relying on allies, thereby becoming a trustworthy partner from the U.S. perspective.

Yoon noted that the South Korean government is pursuing policies to regain wartime operational control over its military and increase defense investments, asserting that these align with U.S. interests.

He highlighted the relationship between South Korea and Italy, stating, "South Korea will strengthen cooperation with Europe in advanced manufacturing and strategic supply chains, and Italy is an ideal partner in future industries."

Yoon also addressed discussions on constitutional amendments in South Korea, reflecting on a recent state of emergency declaration that he said put the country in a crisis. He expressed gratitude that citizens managed to nullify the emergency decree but acknowledged the need for mechanisms to limit arbitrary exercises of presidential power.

He concluded by stating, "We need to amend the constitution to reflect the realities of our time and establish institutional safeguards against arbitrary power, such as illegal emergency decrees."