Chung Yong-jin, chairman of Shinsegae Group, visited the United States to attend the inauguration and ball of President-elect Donald Trump.
On the 17th (local time), Chung met with local reporters at New York's JFK Airport and shared his thoughts about his ties with the Trump family and this visit to the U.S.
Chung noted that he had built a friendship over two years of exchanges with Donald Trump Jr., the eldest son of President-elect Trump. He said, "We quickly became close as we share similar beliefs and interests," and added, "I was invited to the inauguration and ball at the invitation of Trump Jr."
Earlier, Chung was invited to an unofficial dinner with Trump at the Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida last month, where he had a conversation with Trump.
Regarding the conversation with Trump at that time, Chung said, "Trump asked about Korea's political situation and economic capabilities," and replied, "Korea is a country that is always ready to return to normal." However, he refrained from sharing specific questions or political discussions.
When asked whether his ties with the Trump family might have a positive impact on U.S.-Korea relations on a civilian level, he replied, "I will only focus on my role as a corporate leader," and noted, "I do not convey messages on behalf of the government or the business sector." He added, "The channel to the U.S. should be improved, and people more suited than me should meet with the Trump administration."
Chung, who expressed uncertainty about the opportunity to meet President-elect Trump closely at the inauguration and ball, added, "I will continue to engage with Trump Jr. and consider ways to cooperate."
Regarding suspicions about invitations being contingent on donations, he stated, "I understand that foreign corporations do not accept donations," denying the allegations. He also emphasized that there were no discussions about tariff policies or diplomatic issues.