US President Donald Trump is taking a group photo with the South Korean government negotiation team at the White House in Washington DC on the 30th (local time) after reaching a trade agreement. Photo by White House X account

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President Lee Jaemyung revealed on July 31 that the reason he did not take a leading role in the Korea-US trade negotiations was because he was concerned about the potential negative impact on the talks. President Lee said he was "very anxious" during the negotiation process and added, "It made me realize we need to strengthen our national power."

President Lee made these remarks during a senior officials workshop held at the Government Complex Seoul in Jongno-gu, Seoul. Referring to the Korea-US trade negotiations, President Lee explained, "The reason I didn't speak was because my tooth was loose, but since I stayed quiet, people really thought I was just sitting there doing nothing," and clarified, "I didn't speak because saying something could have a negative impact."

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yoonchul is reading a statement at the "Korea-US Trade Consultation Results Briefing" held at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Washington DC, USA, on the 30th (local time). From left, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jungkwan, Deputy Prime Minister Koo Yoonchul, and Chief Negotiator for Trade Yeo Hangoo. Photo by Ministry of Economy and Finance

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President Lee did not make any remarks related to the negotiations during Cabinet meetings or meetings with senior aides held in the midst of the reciprocal tariff negotiations with the United States. Some had questioned whether President Lee should have taken a more active role, but he personally clarified that his approach was one of 'strategic silence.'

President Lee commented, "A duck may look graceful on the surface as it floats on the water, but underneath, it's paddling frantically," and added, "Those aides who are close to me know. They know how anxious we were and what actions we were taking behind the scenes."

The Joint Action to Stop Trump’s Threat and civic groups held a press conference near the U.S. Embassy in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on the 31st to announce their position regarding the conclusion of the Korea-U.S. tariff negotiations. 2025.7.31 Photo by Cho Yongjun

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President Lee also emphasized regarding the Korea-US negotiations, "Viewed narrowly, it may seem like an issue concerning our companies' overseas markets, but in reality, it is a matter that could become a burden for the people of Korea."

Addressing the senior officials attending the workshop, President Lee said, "It was truly a difficult environment. It made me realize we need to strengthen our national power," and added, "Even though the circumstances were tough and the results may not be fully satisfactory, I sincerely thank all of you for your significant achievements."