South Korean President Takes Up Golf to Bond with Trump
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is taking a page out of Japan’s playbook, utilizing golf as a tool to build a strong personal relationship with President-elect Donald Trump. Following concerns over potential negative impacts on South Korea’s trade interests and defense commitment under Trump’s “America first” policy, Yoon has resumed golfing after an eight-year hiatus in preparation for a potential round with the incoming President. Experts believe that establishing this rapport during the transition period could be crucial in convincing Trump to support and advance Seoul’s interests, mirroring the success of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s strategy of using golf to foster a close friendship with Trump.
John Q. Hosedrinker