Macron pivots to South Korea after Japan visit amid tensions with Trump
Tokyo — Emmanuel Macron departed Japan on Thursday for South Korea after a visit marked by strengthened bilateral ties and pointed remarks underscoring tensions with Donald Trump over the Iran war.
During his stay in Japan, Macron signed a cooperation roadmap covering critical minerals and defense, and held talks with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, alongside a meeting with the imperial couple.
He also praised Europe’s “predictability,” in comments widely interpreted as a contrast with recent U.S. policy decisions.The remarks followed criticism from Trump, who described France as “very unhelpful” in the Iran conflict and made personal jibes at Macron.
The exchange highlights growing transatlantic friction as the war continues to reshape global alliances.Macron’s visit to South Korea comes amid heightened geopolitical and economic uncertainty, particularly linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy supplies.
The waterway’s effective closure has driven up oil prices and strained import-dependent economies across Asia.South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called for deeper cooperation with France in an opinion article, emphasizing collaboration in artificial intelligence, nuclear energy, hydrogen technologies and space.
“In an increasingly fragmented and uncertain international environment, partnerships between democratic nations are becoming strategically essential,” Lee wrote.
Seoul has already introduced a fuel price cap to cushion the economic impact of rising energy costs, marking its first such intervention since 1997.Macron’s itinerary in South Korea includes a bilateral summit with Lee, participation in an economic forum, and a visit to a Korean War memorial honoring French troops.
The trip also features cultural engagements, including a dinner with figures from the country’s film and music industries.
The visit underscores France’s effort to deepen ties in the Indo-Pacific while navigating diplomatic strains with Washington over the direction and handling of the Iran conflict.
