Cho Hyun, nominee for Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated on July 17, "I will work closely with the Trump administration to further strengthen and deepen the South Korea-U.S. alliance in a way that brings a win-win outcome for both countries." He added, "Based on a solid South Korea-U.S. alliance, I will also further solidify trilateral cooperation among South Korea, the United States, and Japan."
Cho Hyun, nominee for Minister of Foreign Affairs, is responding to questions from lawmakers at the confirmation hearing held by the Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul on July 17, 2025. Photo by Yonhap News
In his opening remarks at the National Assembly confirmation hearing, Cho said, "I will develop a future-oriented comprehensive strategic alliance with the United States and actively respond to current issues such as tariffs and alliance modernization." He continued, "I will seek to expand cooperation with the United States in all areas, including the economy, military, security, and advanced science and technology." He added, "The United States also highly values our world-class manufacturing capabilities, military power including the defense industry, cultural creativity, and democratic dynamism."
Regarding relations with Japan, Cho said, "I will develop them in a solid and mature manner." He added, "I will identify and implement specific cooperation measures for mutual national interests across the economy, society, and culture, and will communicate closely with the Japanese side to ensure joint responses to geopolitical crises." Concerning the South Korea-Japan-China summit, with Japan serving as chair this year, he said, "I will work to ensure that the summit is held at an early date so that trilateral cooperation can be further expanded." However, regarding historical issues with Japan, he said, "I will maintain a consistent position and respond with patience."
On relations with China, Cho said, "Reflecting the changed geopolitical realities, I will work with private companies to create a new economic relationship model that brings real benefits to both South Korea and China." However, in response to domestic concerns over China's unilateral installation of structures in the West Sea, he emphasized, "On matters of our sovereignty, we will respond firmly and strictly at the whole-of-government level."
Regarding Russia, which continues illegal military cooperation with North Korea, Cho said, "If conditions allow in the future, I will lay the groundwork to strengthen cooperation." He added, "While closely monitoring the international situation, I will adjust the scope and level of intergovernmental communication and continue efforts to protect the rights and interests of our citizens and companies operating in Russia." He continued, "I am firmly opposed to North Korea-Russia military cooperation," and added, "I will work with the international community to ensure that this does not undermine peace on the Korean Peninsula."
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