Published on March 31, 2026
President Lee Jae Myung and a bipartisan delegation of U.S. lawmakers visiting Seoul discussed the implications of the ongoing Middle East conflict and underscored the importance of stabilizing the global economy and energy supply chains. The discussions took place during a meeting at the Blue House in central Seoul on March 31.
Lee and the U.S. lawmakers exchanged views on the Middle East situation and issues concerning the Korean Peninsula. They agreed that maintaining regional peace and stability must be a priority, grounded in the strong alliance between South Korea and the United States. Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung relayed Lee’s gratitude for the delegation’s interest in Korea’s challenges, particularly in light of the recent conflict in the Middle East.
“The whole world is facing a very complex and difficult situation, so I am grateful for your interest in Korea,” Lee stated during the meeting, expressing concern about the ongoing war in the Middle East. He sought the lawmakers’ insights on the evolving situation and any advice they could offer Korea as the conflict worsens, marked between the U.S.-Israeli alliance and Iran.
The U.S. delegation, which included House Representatives Ami Bera, Ryan Zinke, Mark Pocan, Mary Gay Scanlon, Jill Tokuda, and Patrick Harrigan, is part of the Congressional Study Group on Korea, co-chaired , who is also a ranking member of the House Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific.
Lee elaborated on the Korean government’s proactive measures to deploy an emergency economic response system aimed at mitigating the war’s impact on the national economy and public life.
The visit occurs alongside Korea’s intensified commitment to a $350 billion investment plan in the United States, an agreement forged during last year’s summit between Lee and U.S. President Donald Trump. Lee conveyed his hope for fruitful collaboration in critical areas such as nuclear energy, including nuclear-powered submarines and shipbuilding, to further strengthen bilateral relations.
Lee also informed the delegation about the recent passage of a special bill regarding U.S. investment in Korea Assembly and requested legislative support to enhance protections for Korean workers in the U.S., which he deemed essential for strategic investments that create jobs. He highlighted the importance of addressing visa quotas for Korean professionals.
The lawmakers expressed their intent to support these cooperative efforts within Congress. Since taking office in June last year, Lee has engaged with U.S. lawmakers three times, signaling a focus on enhancing diplomatic relations.
In the coming week, Lee is scheduled for additional diplomatic engagements, including summits with Indonesia and France. On April 1, he will meet Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, accompanied by a signing ceremony for memorandums of understanding. The following day, French President Emmanuel Macron is set to visit, marking the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France, with the two leaders planning to discuss trade and investment.
Ahead of the meeting with Subianto, Lee expressed optimism about deepening cooperation in defense and emerging sectors, labeling the co-development of the KF-21 fighter jet Indonesia as a prime example of international defense collaboration. He expressed hopes for expanding defense cooperation, which he believes will enhance security and economic benefits for both nations.
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