On January 3 (Friday), Acting President and Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok, who also serves as the Minister of Economy and Finance, held a meeting with the U.S. Ambassador to Korea, Philip Goldberg, and Commander of U.S. Forces Korea, Xavier Brunson. During the meeting, they exchanged views on the ROK- U.S. alliance and the inauguration of the new U.S. administration.

Acting President Choi stressed that, even amid challenging circumstances, Korea’s foreign affairs and security policies will continue to be pursued unwaveringly grounded in the strong ROK-U.S. alliance. He also reiterated that mutual active cooperation is imperative to ensure that the diplomatic achievements, such as ROK-U.S. and trilateral cooperation with U.S. and Japan to continue to progress.

Ambassador Goldberg and Commander Brunson reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering support for Korea’s democracy and the robust ROK-U.S. alliance, as well as its ironclad commitment to the defense of Korea. They also pledged to make every effort and provide full support to ensure that the over 70-year-old ROK-U.S. alliance continues to grow and thrive going forward.

At the same time, Acting President Choi expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Goldberg for his contributions to the development of the ROK-U.S. alliance over the past two years and five months, requesting his sustained support for the alliance even after his departure. In addition, he congratulated Commander Brunson on his recent appointment (Dec 20) as the Commander of U.S. Forces Korea and encouraged him to play a pivotal role in further advancing the ROK-U.S. alliance.

Ambassador Goldberg expressed that his tenure in Korea as an ambassador had been deeply meaningful and rewarding, emphasizing that he would continue to be a steadfast supporter of the ROK-U.S. alliance. Commander Brunson also affirmed his commitment to making sure that the alliance firmly defend peace and stability on the Korea Peninsula and in the region.

Please refer to the attached files.