South Korea, U.S. deepen ties as PM Kim meets Harris on investment, security.

South Korea’s Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, who is visiting the United States, held talks with U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris at the White House on the afternoon of the 12th, local time. It was their first meeting since January, about 50 days earlier.

Kim pointed to the National Assembly’s passage of the U.S.-Investment Special Act, saying it demonstrates Seoul’s strong resolve to implement investment agreements. He said the law would provide momentum to advance the U.S.-Korea Joint Fact Sheet and push ahead on security-related commitments, including nuclear-powered submarines and civil nuclear energy.

Vice President Harris welcomed the act’s passage, noting that it creates a legal framework to implement investment accords and urged continued close communication on U.S.–Korea investment matters.

Kim also updated Harris on bilateral cooperation in the critical minerals sector and Korea’s proactive decision regarding a request from a U.S. company related to export issues, with Seoul signaling a flexible approach. Harris expressed appreciation for the discussion and suggested maintaining dialogue on non-tariff barriers.

The prime minister and vice president discussed issues that had drawn U.S. interest in January, including investigations into Coupang and the detention of Pastor Son Hyun-bo. Harris reportedly acknowledged Korea’s respect for U.S. domestic law and systems and the government’s willingness to engage on American concerns.

They also exchanged views on the Korean Peninsula, reaffirming that dialogue with North Korea remains possible and agreeing to keep lines of communication open on security matters.

The Prime Minister’s Office said the meeting deepened personal ties and bilateral trust, reflecting a strengthened alliance as Seoul broadens cooperation with Washington beyond traditional security channels. Kim is set to travel to Switzerland after the U.S. leg of his trip to meet with UN agencies about plans to host an UN AI hub and related collaboration.