Trump claims 'Purge of Revolution' in South Korea before the White House summit with the new President Lee Jae Myung

US President Donald Trump upset the tone of a summit in the White House with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung by proposing on Truth Social that the country underwent a ‘purification or revolution’. Lee Jae Myung, president of South Korea, during the presidential appointment ceremony in Seoul, South Korea, on Friday, August 15, 2025. Photographer: Seongjoon Cho/Bloomberg (Bloomberg), US President Donald Trump, launched a fresh attack on South Korea before welcoming the new president, Lee Jae Myung. Trump posted on Truth Social on Monday morning: “What’s going on in South Korea? Looks like a purification or revolution. We can’t do it and do business there. I see the new president today in the White House. Thanks for your attention to this matter !!!” He did not clarify the remarks, but was able to discuss the matter directly with Lee during their meeting. Political upheaval in Seoul South Korea faced months of Onrus after former conservative leader Yoon Suk Yeol tried to impose martial law last December. His move was quickly overturned by Parliament and a popular setback, which culminates in his prosecution and dismissal in April. Lee, a liberal who lost to Yoon in 2022, came to power in a June election. He led efforts to reverse Yoon’s decision in parliament. Prosecutors filed an arrest order with former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Sunday, accusing him of helping Yoon in his failed martial law. Lee’s balancing law Lee indicated that he was eager to work with Washington while carefully managing the relationship with China, the largest trade partner of South Korea. His office said the talks will focus on semiconductors, batteries and shipbuilding, as well as defense of defense. Despite Trump’s broad, Lee emphasized pragmatism. “I look forward to building a productive relationship with President Trump,” he said before leaving for Washington.