Jang Donghyuk: "In-Depth Talks with U.S. NSC and State Department... Some Tangible Results"

Jang Donghyuk, leader of the People Power Party, met with officials from the White House National Security Council (NSC) and the U.S. Department of State during his visit to the United States, where they discussed the Middle East war and issues related to South Korea-U.S. security and economic cooperation. Jang explained that there had been "some achievements" during these meetings. He also noted that the U.S. had voiced expectations for South Korea to play a role as an ally amid the conflict in the Middle East.

Jang Donghyuk, leader of the People Power Party, is visiting on the 14th (local time) to pay respects at the Korean War Memorial. Photo by Yonhap News

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On April 15 (local time), Jang attended a press conference with correspondents at a location in Washington, D.C., stating, "It is very meaningful to hear the U.S. perspective on the impact of the Middle East war and on domestic affairs, and to exchange views with U.S. lawmakers and officials." He added, "Since these issues could also affect the upcoming local elections, I decided to make this U.S. trip despite a busy schedule and many pressing matters."

Jang said, "I met with members of the House and Senate and visited several U.S. think tanks, engaging in meaningful discussions on key topics. I also visited the Department of State, where we had significant talks and made some progress." He continued, "With the information I obtained in the U.S., I will return to Korea and develop strategies on how to manage relations with the U.S. and how to approach U.S.-North Korea relations amid various international circumstances."

Jang was invited to participate in a roundtable hosted by the International Republican Institute (IRI) and left for Washington, D.C. on April 11. On April 14, as his first official activity in the U.S., he paid his respects at the Korean War Memorial, and then met with Representatives Ryan Zinke, Young Kim, and Joe Wilson. He also held meetings with local conservative think tanks such as the America First Policy Institute (AFPI) and the Heritage Foundation.

He also met with Senator Bill Hagerty, a close associate of U.S. President Donald Trump, and Representative Adrian Smith, chair of the House Ways and Means Committee’s Trade Subcommittee, to discuss trade and other topics. According to Jang, "I had in-depth conversations with NSC and State Department officials regarding various issues-especially security matters and economic cooperation with the United States."

Jang cited statements from U.S. administration officials that, "As an ally, South Korea needs to play a role in the Iran war," and "The most basic thing is for South Korea to speak in alignment with the U.S. on the Iran war." He added that there were also responses suggesting, "South Korea may not be doing so." Regarding President Lee Jaemyung’s message, Jang commented, "It seems accurate to say there are some concerns."

There had been speculation that Jang might meet with Pastor Paula White, spiritual advisor to President Trump and head of the White House Faith and Opportunity Initiative, during his visit, but the meeting did not take place. Kim Daeshik, a fellow People Power Party lawmaker and head of the U.S. delegation, explained, "Pastor White is out of town for the Easter holiday, so we could not meet today, but we are continuing to communicate with her."

Regarding internal criticism of his U.S. trip, Jang stated, "There may be different views on the party situation, the role of the party leader, and what is important ahead of the local elections. If there are differences, I will meet with people and explain." He added, "I will arrange time, either individually or collectively, to discuss what happened in the U.S. and what was accomplished."

On the issue of fielding no candidate in the Busan Buk-gap by-election following former leader Han Donghoon's official announcement of his candidacy, Jang said, "Various opinions within the party can be expressed personally," but made clear his opposition, stating, "Candidate nominations are determined by the party leader in consultation with the nomination management committee." Jang emphasized, "As the main opposition party, it is our natural role and responsibility to field a candidate."

Jang is scheduled to conclude his U.S. trip with this press conference and return to Korea on the afternoon of April 17.

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