South Korea praises ‘friendly relationship’ between Trump and Kim Jong Un after US scales back joint training

Published August 17, 2026 9:39am ET | Updated August 17, 2026 9:39am ET



South Korean President Lee Jae Myung praised the friendly relationship between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying the rapport could help revive diplomatic talks with Pyongyang.

Lee’s comments came shortly after Trump reduced U.S. military presence in South Korea, a move similar to one he pursued during his first administration as he sought to create an opening for negotiations with the nuclear-armed North.

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.