Foreign Minister Cho Hyun indicated on October 29 that she would seek to resolve the visa issuance issues affecting some lawmakers before her departure for the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in the United States. This comes amid rising concerns about the state of Korea-U.S. relations, particularly following the emergence of visa problems for lawmakers.
At Incheon International Airport, Cho told reporters, "Although this matter is unrelated to Korea-U.S. relations, it is undesirable. I plan to request that the U.S. expedite the visa issuance for our lawmakers."
Earlier, during a comprehensive audit of the Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Unification on October 27, Cho mentioned that she would raise the visa issue concerning former representative Jeong Cheong-rae with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Jeong had to relocate from the Americas to Europe due to delays in obtaining his U.S. visa ahead of an audit of overseas diplomatic missions. He maintains that his visa is not denied but is currently pending.
However, some speculate that Jeong's past involvement in a student protest at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul may have influenced the visa decision.
Additionally, on October 28, Jin Sung-jun, a member of the National Defense Committee from the ruling Democratic Party, posted on Facebook, "The refusal of a visa to a National Assembly member elected by the people of South Korea and the chair of the defense committee of an allied nation disregards the status of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea and undermines the mutual respect and trust that form the basis of the Korea-U.S. alliance."
In response, the Foreign Ministry stated, "The relevant procedures have not been concluded," and added, "We are closely communicating with the U.S. to facilitate official trips. However, we cannot confirm specific details regarding the review process as the U.S. does not disclose such information." Previously, Jin had shared a photo on Facebook indicating a 'Refused' status.
Moreover, Jin was scheduled to visit the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command in Hawaii from November 1 to 5, along with several other defense committee members. The delegation had reportedly confirmed a meeting with U.S. Pacific Commander Samuel Paparo, raising concerns about the implications of the visa issues. Jin has a history of being penalized for violating the National Security Law, leading to speculation that this may have affected his visa issuance. However, the U.S. has not provided a clear reason for the visa denial.
Meanwhile, recent comments from U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Michelle Steel about "turbulence" in Korea-U.S. relations and remarks from Korean Ambassador to the U.S. Kang Kyung-wha expressing frustration over communication with the White House have fueled speculation about the state of the alliance. In response, Cho stated that the context of these remarks should be considered, asserting that claims of issues in Korea-U.S. relations are unfounded.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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