U.S. President Donald Trump (R-FL) praised his friendship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during a press briefing on Wednesday.
The remarks highlight a complex diplomatic dynamic where the U.S. president expresses personal affinity for a rival leader while criticizing a key strategic ally.
Speaking at the APEC media press centre in Gyeongju, South Korea, Trump addressed reporters on issues ranging from tariffs to regional security. During the session, he focused on his rapport with the North Korean leader.
"I have a good relationship with Kim Jong Un. It's a good thing," Trump said.
While praising Kim, Trump directed sharp criticism toward the host nation. He said, "South Korea is doing some very vicious things."
Trump also shared his assessment of North Korea's military capabilities. He said that North Korea possesses 57 nuclear weapons [1].
Reports on the president's immediate plans for diplomacy remain inconsistent. Some reports indicate Trump said he would love to meet Kim Jong Un during his current visit, while other reports suggest he said such a meeting will not happen.
Throughout the briefing, the president balanced his willingness to engage with Pyongyang against his frustrations with Seoul's current policies. He said that his personal connection with Kim Jong Un remains a positive factor in international relations.
“"I have a good relationship with Kim Jong Un. It's a good thing."”
This rhetoric suggests a transactional approach to diplomacy, where personal rapport with an adversary is prioritized over traditional alliances. By criticizing South Korea while praising North Korea, the president may be leveraging the threat of a rapprochement with Pyongyang to pressure Seoul into policy concessions or trade adjustments.
