South Koreans rally for Trump in Seoul, viewing him as a barrier against China’s rise

In their view, a Trump win in the U.S. presidential election might influence not only the future of America but also Asia's geopolitical landscape.

Screenshot 2024 11 05 at 12.26.18 PM
This show of support for a foreign leader reflects South Korea's complex geopolitical position.

As Americans cast their ballots, the effects are being felt throughout the world. A group of Trump supporters gathered near Gwanghwamun Station in Seoul, South Korea, holding banners with bold statements like “Make America Great Again! “Trump 2024: Take America Back!” and “Make Korea Great Again!”

In their view, a Trump win in the U.S. presidential election might influence not only the future of America but also Asia’s geopolitical landscape.

One of the leading voices at the rally,  Jang Su-nam, voiced his belief that Trump’s re-election would keep China’s influence in check, aligning with South Korea’s interests. “We think that if President Trump is re-elected, he will once again come down hard on China,” Jang explained. He and his fellow demonstrators see Trump as a force capable of countering China’s ambitions, positioning the U.S. as a steadfast ally in maintaining a liberal world order.

For Jang and many of his fellow South Koreans, Trump represents more than just American leadership. He stands in opposition to China’s possible ascent to prominence as a major world power. “If the United States falls, China will inevitably rise as the hegemonic power,” Jang stated. “We support President Trump in this way to ensure that a liberal country remains the hegemonic power, not a communist country.”

These supporters contend that China’s actions on the international scene were constrained during Trump’s previous tenure. According to Jang, a Trump administration would keep up this strategy, putting pressure on Beijing and encouraging stability. He further praised Trump’s approach to diplomacy, saying, “President Trump has made a pledge and made a gesture to move toward peace, not war. That is why we believe that when it comes to moving toward peace, it is Trump, not Kamala.”

The Seoul protest draws attention to how important the U.S. election is on a worldwide scale, particularly in areas near China’s sphere of influence. For Trump’s backers in South Korea, this election is more than just a domestic American political struggle; it’s a pivotal event in maintaining the balance of power in Asia. The words of South Koreans like Jang serve as a reminder of the far-reaching effects of U.S. leadership on the international scene as the world watches the outcome of the U.S. election.

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