Why Is President Lee Jae-myung's First Call with Trump Delayed? Korea Passing Fears Spark Debate

A New President, A Missing Call: What's Happening?

Did you know that three days have passed since Lee Jae-myung became South Korea's president, but he still hasn't spoken to US President Donald Trump? This unusual delay is making headlines across Korea and stirring up heated debates. Traditionally, Korean presidents have made their first call to the US president within hours or a day of taking office. Moon Jae-in spoke to Trump on his inauguration day, Yoon Suk-yeol called Biden just five hours after his election, and Park Geun-hye talked to Obama the day after her win. So why is Lee's first call taking so long? Is it just a scheduling hiccup, or does it signal something deeper about Korea's place in global diplomacy?

Political Firestorm: Opposition Leaders Sound the Alarm

Opposition politicians are not holding back. Na Kyung-won, a senior member of the People Power Party, posted on social media that the delay is fueling concerns about the strength of the US-Korea alliance. She pointed out that the alliance is the backbone of South Korea's security, and any sign of trouble could have serious consequences. Ahn Cheol-soo echoed these worries, warning that the delay could be the start of 'Korea Passing'—a term Koreans use to describe being sidelined in international affairs. He criticized the presidential office's explanation that 'time zone differences' caused the delay, calling it an excuse that doesn't convince the public. Both politicians demanded clear answers and urged Lee to act quickly to reassure the nation.

Media and Blogs: Is Korea Being Left Out?

Korean news outlets and blogs are buzzing with speculation. Some argue that the delay is a minor issue, while others see it as a red flag for Korea's diplomatic future. Several blogs highlight that congratulatory messages from major Western leaders—like those of the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain—have not been confirmed either. Instead, only leaders from neighboring countries such as Japan, China, and Vietnam have reached out. This lack of high-profile engagement is fueling the narrative that Korea might be losing its influence on the world stage. Bloggers are asking tough questions: Is the new administration struggling to build trust? Is Korea becoming an 'outcast' in the international community?

Community Reactions: Online Outrage and Sarcasm

If you check out popular Korean forums like DC Inside, Theqoo, Nate Pann, and FM Korea, you'll find a mix of outrage, sarcasm, and genuine concern. Some users are furious, blaming the government for mishandling diplomacy. Comments like 'Are we being ignored by the US?' and 'This is embarrassing for Korea' are common. Others are more cynical, joking that maybe Trump is too busy or that the time zone excuse is just a cover for deeper problems. A few try to stay optimistic, suggesting that the delay might be strategic or simply due to scheduling conflicts. But the dominant mood is one of anxiety and frustration.

Cultural Insight: Why Do Koreans Care So Much About the First Call?

For international readers, it's important to understand why this phone call matters so much in Korea. The US-Korea alliance is not just about military cooperation—it's a symbol of Korea's status as a key player in global politics. The first phone call between new leaders is seen as a ritual that reaffirms this partnership. Any delay, even if minor, can spark fears of 'Korea Passing,' a term that reflects deep-seated anxieties about being sidelined by major powers. This fear is rooted in Korea's history of being caught between larger nations and its ongoing quest for international recognition and respect.

What's Next? The Stakes for Lee Jae-myung and South Korea

So, what happens if the call continues to be delayed? For President Lee, the pressure is mounting. His political opponents are using the issue to question his diplomatic skills and leadership. The media is watching closely, and the public is growing restless. If the delay is resolved soon, it may be remembered as a minor hiccup. But if it drags on, it could undermine Lee's presidency and South Korea's standing in the world. The situation is a reminder of how much symbolism and perception matter in international politics—especially in a country as globally connected and security-conscious as South Korea.

Global Context: Is Korea Really Being 'Passed'?

While the delay is unusual, some experts caution against overreacting. They note that President Trump has been busy with other international engagements, including calls with leaders from Russia and China, and meetings with Germany's chancellor. The White House has stated that the US-Korea alliance remains 'ironclad,' but also made an unusual mention of concerns about Chinese influence in its congratulatory message to Lee. This suggests that Washington is watching Seoul's foreign policy direction closely. Whether this is a temporary glitch or a sign of shifting alliances remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Koreans will be watching every move.

Final Thoughts: What Should International Fans Know?

If you're a fan of Korean culture, politics, or just global affairs, this story is a fascinating window into the anxieties and aspirations of a country that punches above its weight on the world stage. The 'first call' tradition may seem symbolic, but in Korea, it carries real weight. The debate over Lee Jae-myung's delayed call with Trump is about more than just a phone conversation—it's about national pride, trust, and Korea's place in an unpredictable world. Stay tuned, because this story is far from over.