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Han Duck-soo, acting president and prime minister, speaks on the phone with U.S. President Donald Trump at his office in the Seoul Government Complex on April 8. / Source: Prime Minister’s Office

Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo held his first telephone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on April 8, discussing a wide range of bilateral issues, including the strengthening of the South Korea-U.S. alliance, trade balance, and the North Korean nuclear issue. 

The call lasted 28 minutes, from 9:03 PM to 9:31 PM, and took place in Han's office at the Seoul Government Complex. While interpreters were present as per diplomatic protocol, certain parts of the conversation were conducted directly in English without interpretation. ​

During the call, Acting President Han expressed hope for the expansion and strengthening of the South Korea-U.S. alliance under the new U.S. administration. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the military alliance and exchanged views on its continued development. Han also emphasized the desire for elevated cooperation in three key areas: shipbuilding, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and trade balance. The two sides agreed to pursue constructive ministerial-level discussions to find mutually beneficial solutions in economic cooperation, including trade balance. ​

Addressing the escalating security threats posed by North Korea's advancing nuclear and missile capabilities, Han underscored the importance of demonstrating that the determination of South Korea, the U.S., and the international community for North Korea's denuclearization is far stronger than North Korea's intent to possess nuclear weapons. Both parties agreed to maintain close coordination on North Korea policy moving forward. Additionally, they concurred on the significance of trilateral cooperation among South Korea, the U.S., and Japan for regional peace, stability, and prosperity, and committed to further developing this three-way partnership. ​

Following the conversation, President Trump posted on his social media account, stating that they discussed "tariffs, shipbuilding, large-scale purchases of American LNG, joint investment in the Alaska pipeline, and payment for the massive military protection provided to South Korea."

This marks the first communication between South Korean and U.S. leaders since the inauguration of the new U.S. administration. Former President Yoon Suk-yeol had previously spoken with President Trump shortly after his election victory on November 7 of the previous year. However, subsequent political developments in South Korea, including Yoon's impeachment, had prevented further direct communication until now.