As US President Donald Trump prepares to visit Seoul, hundreds of protesters gathered in South Korea’s capital, voicing their discontent with both American and Chinese influences. Near the US embassy, demonstrators chanted ‘No Trump!’ while police buses blocked their path, ensuring their voices echoed across Gwanghwamun Square. Simultaneously, another group rallied near Gyeongbokgung Palace, shouting ‘No China!’ and ‘CCP out!’ These protests, though relatively small by South Korean standards, underscore the delicate diplomatic balancing act President Lee Jae-myung faces as he hosts both Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping this week. South Korea, a long-standing US ally, relies on Washington for security but also depends heavily on China, its largest trading partner. This dual dependency places Seoul in a precarious position, particularly as tensions between the US and China escalate. Lee, a seasoned politician, must navigate these complexities while addressing domestic concerns, including recent immigration raids in the US that have strained bilateral ties. The protests also reflect growing anti-Chinese sentiment in South Korea, fueled by historical grievances and recent policy decisions. Despite these challenges, Lee remains committed to fostering stronger economic and diplomatic relations with both superpowers, aiming to secure South Korea’s prosperity and stability in an increasingly polarized global landscape.
‘No Trump! No China!’: Caught in the middle, South Korea hosts rival superpowers
