Jeong Yong-jin, chairman of Shinsegae Group, said on the 22nd, "I met many (U.S.) figures through the introduction of Donald Trump Jr., and they were interested in the situation in Korea," adding, "From a business perspective, I am trying to do my best in my position as a private bridge."
Jeong spoke with reporters at Incheon International Airport after returning from a business trip to the United States that afternoon. Jeong visited the U.S. at the invitation of Trump Jr., the eldest son of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. On the 20th (local time), he met Trump, shared a meal, and had a conversation. It is known that Jeong was the first domestic figure to meet with the president-elect since his election victory last month.
Jeong also met with Elon Musk, chairman of Tesla, during this trip. He explained that their interaction was limited to a brief greeting. When asked if Musk was interested in the situation in Korea, Jeong replied, "He was not interested." Jeong is the first Tesla customer in Korea. Musk was recently appointed as a co-leader of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the second Trump administration, which will launch in January next year. Musk emerged as a major backer of Trump's election, providing substantial financial support.
Jeong stated he could not disclose specific details of his conversation with the president-elect and remarked, "I don't think it's appropriate to discuss business matters here," brushing off questions about the plans for expanding business in the United States.
Jeong noted, "This trip was made at the invitation of Trump Jr., who introduced me to many figures, allowing for in-depth conversations and exchanges during my stay," adding, "American figures are also watching the situation in Korea with interest. Korea is a resilient country, so please trust and wait. We will quickly return to normal."
Jeong arrived at Mar-a-Lago, the resort where President-elect Trump resides, in Florida on the 16th and spent time dining with Trump Jr. Initially, Jeong was supposed to stay for three nights and four days, but his stay was extended to five nights and six days. This is Jeong's second visit to Mar-a-Lago.
Jeong mentioned that he was introduced to several American figures through Trump Jr. during his stay at Mar-a-Lago.
There are predictions that Jeong will attend the inauguration of President-elect Trump on Jan. 20. Reports indicate that Jeong's side is considering attendance if the government assembles a delegation. Jeong said, "I have not received any special contact regarding the inauguration, but I would be willing to respond positively if a participation request comes as soon as the government delegation is organized."