Key facts
- U.S. President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met on September 22, 2026.
- The leaders welcomed significant progress in discussions on strategic investment projects.
- Discussions included South Korea's pursuit of nuclear-powered submarines, rights to enrich uranium, and reprocess spent nuclear fuel.
- The transfer of wartime operational control of Korean troops was also discussed.
- Trump reaffirmed his commitment to dialogue with North Korea.
- Lee expressed hope for a successful US-China summit on Thursday.
U.S. President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung held summit talks on September 22, 2026, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. The 30-minute meeting covered a range of critical issues between the two allies, including progress on strategic investment projects and defense matters.
Both leaders welcomed significant progress in discussions on strategic investment projects, with potential investments identified in a Texas gas-fired power project, nuclear energy, and an Alaska LNG project as part of a $350 billion package. Discussions also included South Korea's pursuit of nuclear-powered submarines, its rights to enrich uranium, and the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel. The transfer of wartime operational control of Korean troops from Washington to Seoul was also a key topic.
During the summit, President Trump reiterated his commitment to engaging in dialogue with North Korea, and both leaders agreed to remain in close communication in pursuit of a peace process. Lee also noted the importance of the upcoming US-China summit for regional developments, including South Korea-China relations.