South Korea's Top Adviser Heads to Washington for Crucial Talks

South Korea's national security adviser, Wi Sung-lac, is set to visit Washington between July 6-8 for pivotal talks on ongoing issues between the two nations, according to his office's announcement on Saturday.

With the impending expiration of a U.S. tariff freeze, South Korea is keen on negotiating an extension. Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo has already flown to Washington for preemptive discussions with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and other officials.

Furthermore, Wi Sung-lac seeks to coordinate a potential summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. At Incheon airport, Wi indicated that trade and defense discussions are at a critical juncture, though he did not confirm any meetings with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

(With inputs from agencies.)