Washington: South Korea’s premier revealed that he proposed the idea of the United States sending a special envoy to North Korea during a meeting with US Vice President JD Vance in Washington.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kim Min-seok stated that he conveyed to Vance that former President Trump possesses the will and capability to improve relations with North Korea. Kim suggested that sending a special envoy could be a strategic move to demonstrate an intent to enhance diplomatic relations. He also mentioned having potential candidates in mind for the envoy position.

In their discussions, Kim and Vance also addressed Seoul’s investigation into the US-listed e-commerce company Coupang, following a customer data leak affecting personal information from an estimated 33.7 million customers. Coupang, however, asserted that only around 3,000 customer accounts had been compromised.

Vance urged both governments to handle the issue carefully to prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary tensions. Kim assured Vance of Seoul’s commitment to promptly address any misinformation that arises.

Additionally, two US investors have informed Seoul of their plans to pursue arbitration claims over alleged “discriminatory” actions against Coupang, urging Washington to investigate the matter. Kim assured Vance that there is no discriminatory treatment of US businesses in South Korea.

This visit marks Kim’s inaugural international trip as prime minister and the first solo visit to the US by a South Korean premier since the late 1980s.