[K-Women Talk] Public-Private One Team Play: The Key to Success at the Korea-U.S. Summit

One of the most celebrated successes in the history of Korean diplomacy is the story of Seo Hee, who secured the six districts of Gangdong through diplomatic negotiations with the Khitan during the reign of King Seongjong of Goryeo. As is well known, in 993 AD, when Xiao Sunning of the Khitan invaded Goryeo with a large army after Goryeo refused to establish diplomatic relations, the Goryeo court was thrown into confusion, with some even suggesting ceding territory to make peace. At this critical moment, Seo Hee, who was well-versed in international affairs, stepped forward to propose a diplomatic solution. He met Xiao Sunning alone and achieved an extraordinary outcome through a decisive negotiation.

Of course, a miraculous diplomatic negotiation like Seo Hee's is impossible in today's society. While the past was an era of territorial wars, we now live in an era of economic warfare. In a world where the global economy is interconnected and all information is shared, it is no longer possible for a single individual to settle matters through a showdown. However, there are principles in diplomacy and negotiation that remain applicable both in the past and present.

First, the most important thing is to accurately understand the other party's situation. Seo Hee knew well that the Khitan's main interest at the time was to drive out the Song and take control of mainland China. He also likely knew that the Khitan found the Jurchens troublesome. Second, once you know what the other party wants most, you must identify resources you have that can be offered to them so both sides can benefit. Seo Hee argued that it was difficult to interact with the Khitan because the Jurchens occupied the area around the Amnok River, and proposed that if Goryeo were allowed to build fortresses east of the Amnok River, they would drive out the Jurchens and facilitate exchanges with the Khitan. This is how he secured the six districts of Gangdong. Third is to maintain a confident attitude in diplomatic engagements. From the very first greeting, Seo Hee refused Xiao Sunning's demand to bow in the courtyard, insisting on an equal exchange of courtesies. He did not back down in this contest of wills.

The South Korea-US summit held on August 25, which recently drew the attention of the entire nation, can be seen as a valuable diplomatic achievement that embodied all three of these principles. First, the South Korean government understood that what the United States needed most was not only to address its trade deficit, but also to strengthen its naval power-which has been challenged in competition with China-and to revive its shipbuilding industry. The government approached the talks accordingly.

Second, by leveraging South Korea’s world-leading shipbuilding capabilities for joint projects, and recognizing that cooperation in areas such as nuclear power and semiconductors could also be mutually beneficial, both sides were able to find win-win alternatives. Third, the president-seen by the public as the 'Top Diplomat'-displayed a confident and composed demeanor. President Lee Jaemyung, sitting across from Trump in the Oval Office, maintained an upright posture throughout the meeting and referred to Trump as a 'peacemaker,' responding with composure. This was a moment that filled the nation with pride.

However, in modern society, there is one more principle to add to the formula for diplomatic success: the public-private "one team" approach. I believe the success of this summit was greatly aided by the contributions of the world-class CEOs from Korean companies who accompanied the delegation. Their pledge to invest a total of 150 billion dollars in the United States likely laid the groundwork for the summit’s smooth progress.

Now, the remaining task is for the government to do its utmost to ensure that the implementation of the summit’s agreements benefits the Korean economy. To dispel concerns that domestic investments might be diverted to the US, leading to fewer jobs for young people, regulatory reforms and job creation efforts must be prioritized for business activities. Furthermore, US investments should translate into increased exports and expanded orders for related industries. Another round of public-private teamwork is needed at this time.

Kim Kyungseon, Former Vice Minister of Gender Equality and Family