Relations between South Korea and North Korea, which have always been tense, have become particularly hostile in recent weeks.
Allegations of Landmines and Military Tests
Last month, Seoul accused North Korea of planting landmines on the southern side of the heavily fortified border. The mine exploded, injuring three South Korean soldiers. Pyongyang refused to apologize and deemed the incident a deceptive act to tarnish the image of its isolated country. The North Korean regime subsequently conducted several weapons tests, held its first military drone exhibition with Kim Jong Un in attendance, and moved its self-propelled artillery units to the border.
Read more: California Governor Warned Trump and Sent Election Lawyers to Key Areas
South Korea's Concerns About Relations with the US
Alongside Seoul's issues with its long-time rival, many in South Korea are deeply concerned about their most important ally, the United States. South Korean politicians are worried that the US may go so far in seeking a diplomatic breakthrough with North Korea that it overlooks South Korea's security or even exposes it to nuclear threats from Pyongyang.
The US government has recently proposed trilateral talks with Russia and China regarding the fate of Ukraine, and in this context, a representative from Kyiv has not been invited. The concern in Seoul is that the US President may similarly overlook Seoul and engage in discussions about the future of the Korean Peninsula with China and North Korea.
Kim Sang-woo, a former South Korean politician, said, "Currently, there is a trust issue between the two governments." He added that the diplomats of President Lee do not have access to the important decision-making facts in this government.
Concerns About Future Agreements
The concern in Seoul is that President Trump may be seeking the Nobel Peace Prize and therefore meet with Kim Jong Un. Trump has recently indicated his willingness to resume negotiations and has proposed a meeting on November 18 in Shenzhen, China.
These concerns arise as South Korea is making efforts to improve communications with Pyongyang. These efforts have caused dissatisfaction among South Korea's European allies, who are upset about North Korea's military assistance to Russia in the Ukraine war.
Read more: Mike Johnson Continues to Lead the Republicans · John Kerry Warned Trump Not to Attack Iran
