SEOUL, South Korea — President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea is dusting off his golf clubs as he looks to establish a rapport with the incoming President Donald Trump, who is known for his love of the sport.
The presidential office announced on Tuesday that Yoon has returned to practicing golf for the first time in eight years, in anticipation of potentially playing a round with Trump.
Since Trump’s election, there are rising apprehensions regarding his “America first” policy and its possible repercussions on the U.S. defense commitments to South Korea, as well as potential impacts on the South Korean economy, including increased tariffs.
Experts suggest that cultivating a strong personal relationship with Trump during this transition phase could prove vital before he officially assumes office in January.
“Yoon’s ability to create a positive rapport with Trump during this pivotal transition may significantly influence how the U.S. supports and advances South Korea’s interests,” remarked Duyeon Kim, a senior analyst at the Center for a New American Security.
In a recent phone conversation, Yoon and Trump explored ways to enhance bilateral collaboration, agreeing to organize an in-person meeting soon. The South Korean president later informed reporters that changes are inevitable compared to the Biden administration’s approach, stating, “We have been preparing to hedge these risks for a long time.”
According to local reports, Yoon visited a golf course in Seoul over the weekend, although his office refrained from confirming these sightings.
A senior official, who chose to remain anonymous during a briefing, mentioned that regardless of Yoon’s golf skills, practice was necessary as “our president must be able to play well to stimulate engaging conversations” with Trump, recognized for his impressive golfing abilities.
Yoon is not the first global leader to engage in golf as a means to strengthen ties with Trump. During his tenure, former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe fostered a personal connection with Trump through golf, both in Japan and the United States. In 2017, Abe highlighted that golfing together offered a unique opportunity to unwind and discuss challenging matters.