Swinging Diplomacy: Yoon's Golf Gambit with Trump

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is dusting off his golf clubs to build a rapport with President-elect Donald Trump. With potential shifts in American defense and trade policies, Yoon aims to strike positive chemistry through a shared love of golf, mirroring Japan's Shinzo Abe's past strategy.

In a strategic move to build rapport, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is reaching for his golf clubs, hoping to bond with President-elect Donald Trump, known for his love of the sport.

Yoon, who has not played golf in eight years, is practicing in anticipation of a possible game with Trump, signaling an effort to smoothen diplomatic relations. Concerns have emerged over Trump's 'America first' policy, which may affect South Korea's defense and trade alliances. Establishing a personal connection is seen as crucial during this transition.

In a recent phone call, the two leaders discussed enhancing bilateral relations and agreed to meet soon. Yoon emphasized the importance of adapting strategies to hedge potential shifts away from the policies of the Biden administration.

(With inputs from agencies.)