President Yoon Suk-yeol recently celebrated a noteworthy diplomatic achievement with his successful hosting of the Pacific Summit. However, carving a definitive niche for South Korea in the crowded arena of Pacific diplomacy will not be easy.

From May 29 to May 30, Yoon hosted representatives from 17 of the 18 Pacific Island Forum (PIF) members at the inaugural Korea-Pacific Islands Summit in Seoul. A dozen of these nations sent their leaders to attend, marking a significant stride for South Korea’s Pacific outreach.

The general reception was positive for Yoon and most of the attendees. The declaration from the Pacific Summit