US troops in South Korea could be “critical” for containing China, according to the front runner for the country’s presidential election who signalled a possible change in his position on China.
In an interview with Time published on Thursday, the Democratic Party of Korea’s (DPK) presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung said US Forces Korea (USFK) could play a “critical role for the United States policy of containment against China”.
He also said Washington’s recent rapprochement with Moscow was “a means to exert pressure on China” and could benefit Seoul with the possible opening of Arctic shipping routes.
“If so, it could offer strategic advantages, not only for the US and Russia but also for Korea,” he said, according to Time.
South Korea will choose a new president on Tuesday after Yoon Suk-yeol was impeached last month following his abrupt declaration of martial law in December.
Lee and the progressive DPK lead South Korea’s presidential race with up to 50 per cent of public support according to the polls.