Seoul Pivots: Lee’s Beijing Visit Signals Trade Thaw

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung‘s historic four-day state visit to Beijing marks a potential inflection point for North Asian economic integration. As the first such visit in nine years, it signals a pragmatic shift in Seoul’s foreign policy, prioritizing economic stability over exclusive alignment with Washingtons security architecture.

Economic Re-coupling

The presence of over 200 business leaders, including heads of Samsung, SK, and Hyundai, underscores the urgency of the trip. With South Koreas export-led economy facing headwinds, revitalizing the China trade channel is critical.

Forex Implications: KRW and CNY

This diplomatic realignment suggests that Asian currencies may begin to decouple slightly from the USD-centric trade waltz, driven by renewed regional supply chain integration.