South Korean President Lee Jae-myung departed Tuesday for a diplomatic tour of Europe to attend the G7 summit and hold bilateral meetings [1].
The trip represents a strategic effort to strengthen South Korea’s diplomatic ties with key European nations during a period of global economic and political shifts [1].
The president's itinerary spans approximately 10 days [1]. His first stop is Belgium, where the visit coincides with the 125th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries [1].
Following the visit to Belgium, President Lee is scheduled to travel to Italy, where a state visit will begin on June 11, 2026 [2]. The itinerary also includes stops in Vatican City, and France [2].
President Lee is accompanied by First Lady Kim Hye-kyung [1]. The diplomatic tour is designed to utilize the G7 summit as a catalyst for broader engagement with European leaders [2].
Officials said the trip will focus on enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors. By visiting several European capitals in a single tour, the administration aims to solidify regional partnerships and address shared international challenges [1].
“President Lee Jae-myung departed Tuesday for a diplomatic tour of Europe”
This tour signals South Korea's intent to diversify its strategic partnerships beyond its traditional security alliances. By leveraging the G7 summit to facilitate bilateral meetings in Belgium, Italy, France, and the Vatican, President Lee is positioning South Korea as a key interlocutor between Asia and Europe, particularly as the nation celebrates a century and a quarter of ties with Belgium.
