During South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol’s recent attendance at the 43rd ASEAN and East Asia summits, Yoon aimed to secure ASEAN’s backing against North Korea’s escalating missile and nuclear threats, labeling them an “existential threat” to all member nations. He also advocated for united efforts to prevent North Korea’s cryptocurrency thefts and the export of North Korean laborers, which he identified as the primary financial source supporting Pyongyang’s missile and nuclear weapon endeavors.

His address highlights his drive to bolster relations with Southeast Asian countries in alignment with Seoul’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. However, a significant challenge lies ahead: ensuring commitment to a rules-based Indo-Pacific order beyond Yoon’s tenure.