In a published statement ahead of the visit, The Korea National Diplomatic Academy (KNDA) hosted the Seoul Diplomacy Forum 2026 on Thursday, September 3, 2026, drawing 259 participants to the Grand Conference Hall of the KNDA. The forum, themed “Global Governance in a Changing International Order,” underscored a key objective of the Lee Jae Myung administration: to actively contribute to international cooperation despite perceived geopolitical crises. This event marks a deliberate effort by Korea to shape its role within an increasingly complex and uncertain global landscape.
Background
The forum’s structure comprised three sessions, each addressing critical facets of contemporary international relations. Session I examined shifts in the international order and global governance, while Session II focused on strengthening global governance through international cooperation and solidarity. Session III explored the role of international law in a transitional international order and Korea’s diplomacy.
Prior to the forum, Chancellor KIM Heungkyu had already established a framework for the Lee Jae Myung administration’s diplomatic approach – one prioritizing alliance development alongside self-reliance and broader cooperation. This was built on an understanding that Korea’s economic success was intrinsically linked to an open and stable international order. The KNDA itself is designed to cultivate future diplomats aligned with this pragmatic, nationally-interested approach.
Analysis
The forum’s speakers identified several key challenges facing the current international order. Miguel de SERPA SOARES highlighted fragmentation of norms, weakened enforcement, and growing skepticism toward multilateral institutions – issues that directly inform the Lee Jae Myung administration’s emphasis on strengthening Korea’s own capabilities alongside existing partnerships. The stated goal is to bolster Korea’s influence within a system perceived as increasingly unreliable.
Chancellor KIM Heungkyu’s opening remarks emphasized a need for middle powers to actively uphold international norms, suggesting that Korea, with its growing economic and geopolitical standing, has a particular responsibility in this regard. The administration’s three pillars – alliance, self-reliance, and solidarity – represent a calculated strategy designed to navigate the uncertainties of the current global landscape. This approach contrasts with criticisms leveled against Korea’s previous diplomatic focus.
The diverse perspectives presented at the forum—including those from New Zealand, Greece, Japan, Seoul National University, and the International Criminal Court—demonstrate an awareness of the multifaceted nature of the challenges facing international governance. The inclusion of figures like KWON O-Gon and RHEE Zha Hyoung reflects a deliberate effort to incorporate legal expertise into Korea’s diplomatic toolkit.
Implications
The Seoul Diplomacy Forum 2026 has significant implications for regional stability. A strengthened alliance with the United States, as outlined by Minister Cho, remains a cornerstone of Korean security policy, but one now framed within a broader commitment to international cooperation. The emphasis on maritime security, echoed by Ambassador Bennett and Secretary General Dokos, suggests a potential area of increased engagement in Southeast Asia.
Furthermore, the forum’s discussions regarding global governance will likely shape Korea’s trade policies. The administration’s focus on building networks that support continued U.S. leadership reflects an understanding of Korea’s economic dependence on a stable global trading system and aims to ensure its continued access.
Outlook
Should the visit yield increased engagement with key partners, particularly within the framework of the ROK-U.S. Alliance, then Korea’s ability to influence international norms – as suggested by Professor Jo Dong Joon—may be significantly enhanced. If the administration successfully builds a more robust network of cooperation, it could position Korea as a facilitator for dialogue between major powers on issues such as climate change and technological governance.
Conclusion
The forum’s focus on “shared values and principles” offers no definitive answers regarding the future direction of Korean foreign policy. The continuing emphasis on pragmatic diplomacy—rooted in national interest—leaves open the question of how Korea will balance its strategic partnerships with a commitment to global governance within an increasingly complex and contested international order.
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