[The Editors' Verdict] "Golden" Trump: Shine Together, Not Alone

South Korea?U.S. Trade Deal Reached, Golden Gift Draws Attention
True Gold Shines Brightest Through Solidarity

The South Korea-U.S. trade negotiations reached a dramatic agreement. This occurred just about three hours after the summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and President Lee Jaemyung, who visited South Korea on the 29th.

Initially, most observers believed that the chances of reaching an agreement were slim, given that the two countries had endured more than two months of difficult negotiations. Senior officials from both sides had also publicly stated that it was unlikely a final trade deal would be reached at this summit. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant said on the 28th, "There are still many details to resolve," and explained that the situation was not yet ripe for concluding the trade negotiations with South Korea.

International media outlets simultaneously reported the news of the dramatic agreement, focusing on the Silla gold crown replica and the Grand Order of Mugunghwa prepared by South Korea. The consensus was that South Korea had strategically targeted President Trump's tastes with a lavish 'golden gift.' CNN commented, "South Korea made full use of President Trump's gold obsession," and described the gold crown gift as "perfectly tailored for him."

President Trump's love of gold is well known. Since taking office, empty spaces on White House shelves and above the fireplace have been filled with ornate gold decorations and gilded ornaments. He even had golden statues and angel figurines brought in to decorate his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Reportedly, even his TV remote control was replaced with a gold-plated version.

His policies are also saturated with gold-themed names. From the new 'Golden Fleet' to counter China, to the missile defense system 'Golden Dome,' the immigration program 'Gold Card,' the energy project 'Golden Era,' and the national reconstruction slogan 'Golden Age.' This is why some refer to the White House as the 'Golden House.'

To cater to President Trump's preferences, every overseas trip has included gifts of golf equipment and gold-plated items. The variety includes gold-plated fighter jet models, golf clubs, gold necklaces, and gold-adorned portraits. Japan, for example, gifted a golden samurai helmet in February and a golden golf ball more recently.

South Korea's 'gold crown gift' was also custom-made for President Trump, who is known for his extraordinary love of gold. In particular, a special explanation was provided, stating that "the Cheonmachong gold crown symbolizes the divine connection between the authority of the heavens and rule on earth, as well as the strong leadership and authority of a leader," precisely appealing to President Trump's tastes.

It is difficult to say that the 'gold crown gift' directly influenced the conclusion of the South Korea-U.S. tariff negotiations. Nevertheless, President Trump's remark, "This is truly special. Thank you," suggests that he was very pleased with the gift.

Of course, there are criticisms that it is ironic for President Trump, who faces ongoing anti-Trump protests in the U.S. with chants of "No Kings" and is criticized for authoritarian leadership, to receive a 'crown' as a gift.

This year, eight tracks from the globally successful "K-Pop Demon Hunters" have remained on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 main singles chart for 16 consecutive weeks. In particular, the lead track "Golden" held the top spot for eight weeks. The lyrics of "Golden" convey the message that one shines like gold not alone but together, emphasizing the importance of solidarity. While gold symbolizes authority and greatness for President Trump, in this song it transforms into a symbol of radiant hope for 'us,' not just 'me.'

One wonders if President Trump has ever listened to this song. If the 'Golden Trump' truly wishes to make America great, he should remember that greatness is achieved not alone, but when shining together.