South Korea rolled out the red carpet for former U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday, greeting him with military fanfare, music, and a royal touch. Trump, who arrived on the final leg of his Asia visit after stops in Malaysia and Japan, will meet President Lee Jae Myung for key trade discussions and a symbolic gesture of friendship.
As Air Force One approached, U.S. and South Korean warplanes escorted the aircraft before it touched down to the tune of “YMCA” performed by a military band. A gun salute marked the start of Trump’s official visit, signaling the high importance Seoul has placed on this meeting.
In recognition of his past efforts toward peace on the Korean Peninsula, President Lee will present Trump with the “Grand Order of Mugunghwa,” the highest state decoration in South Korea. The award, named after the national flower Mugunghwa — or Rose of Sharon — honors individuals who have contributed to national prestige and peace.
Trump is also set to receive a replica of the ancient Cheonmachong gold crown, a treasured artifact from Gyeongju, the former capital of the Silla kingdom. The ornate gift symbolizes a new era of cooperation and peaceful coexistence between the U.S. and South Korea, according to Lee’s office.
The two leaders will tour the city’s museum before sitting down for a working lunch that features a Thousand Island salad — a nod to Trump’s American roots — alongside traditional Korean dishes.
Later, Trump will join a private dinner with leaders from Vietnam, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Thailand, and Singapore — several of whom rescheduled their engagements to meet him ahead of the APEC summit scheduled later this week.
