Trump would never have imagined that the greatest variable in the Sino-US game would be on the Korean Peninsula, and the situation is slipping out of his control.

While Trump was deadlocked with China, the EU, and Japan over tariff issues, significant changes occurred on the Korean Peninsula. Trump probably never expected that the greatest variable in the Sino-US game would be on the Korean Peninsula.

A few hours ago, Lee Jae-myung, a candidate for the South Korean presidency, posted on his personal social media platform, talking extensively about Sino-Korean and Sino-North Korean relations. Lee Jae-myung emphasized two key points:

1. He will actively repair relations with China because it concerns national interests. After all, China is not only an important trade partner for South Korea but also plays a crucial role in the situation on the Korean Peninsula.

2. He stated that he would restore military hotlines between South Korea and North Korea to prevent tensions between the two countries.

Although Lee Jae-myung also emphasized further consolidating the relationship between South Korea and the US, South Korea needs to change direction in terms of society and economy. This statement by Lee Jae-myung is likely to make Trump furious, as it means that Biden's political legacy (the firm relationship between the US and South Korea) is facing serious challenges.

Currently, Lee Jae-myung still leads in domestic support, with the latest support rate being 45%. However, he cannot be too complacent yet; Kim Moon-soo, the candidate from the People Power Party, who ranks second, has a support rate of 36%, making him Lee Jae-myung's biggest competitor.

Meanwhile, Lee Jae-myung now has to worry about American interference in the election. The US is well-versed in manipulating other countries' elections, especially for countries like South Korea. It remains to be seen which way the chaebols of South Korea will lean. As a country greatly influenced by chaebol groups, their attitude will play a decisive role in the election. I am optimistic about Lee Jae-myung, as the business environment for South Korea's chaebols has become increasingly difficult in recent years due to the instability in Sino-Korean relations.

Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1833152944219146/

Disclaimer: The article solely represents the author's views.