South Korean President Lee Jae-myung Withdraws from NATO Summit Amid Middle East Crisis and National Priorities

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's unexpected cancellation of his participation in this week's NATO summit in the Netherlands underscores the complex geopolitical and domestic challenges facing Seoul. Although South Korea is not a formal NATO member, it holds the status of a "global partner," making Lee's planned attendance symbolically significant. Lee assumed office on June 4, marking him as a fresh face on the international stage. There was speculation about a potential side meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss tariffs and security issues, reflecting lingering economic and strategic friction between Washington and Seoul. However, escalating hostilities in...