‘Securing peace’: South Korea pivots to pragmatic diplomacy

“Diplomatic issues were exploited for domestic political purposes,” said Cho, a veteran diplomat with decades of experience. “We need to move beyond ideological divides and pursue a pragmatic diplomacy rooted in rationality and efficiency, with national interests at the centre.”

Analysts say Cho’s remarks echo President Lee’s determination to steer the nation away from the “friend-or-foe” world view that defined the previous conservative administration, which critics contend placed political alignment above practical diplomacy.

Observers see Cho’s candid statements as a clear declaration that Seoul intends to break with the Yoon government’s value-based diplomacy in favour of a broader, more strategic approach: one that balances traditional alliances while expanding diplomatic outreach.