Top U.S. envoy cites 'turbulence' in S. Korea-U.S. alliance amid rift in security, trade priorities

What happened: U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Michelle Steel described Seoul-Washington relations as in a state of "turbulence," citing friction in security and trade ties and calling for a stronger, more equal partnership. Why it matters: Steel urged Seoul to ensure fair treatment for U.S. companies like Coupang and said South Korea should take a more leading role alongside the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific. Key numbers: Remarks made Wednesday, Oct. 21, in Seoul; summit agreement reached in October last year; Korean War dated 1950-53.

U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Michelle Steel described Seoul-Washington relations as in a state of "turbulence," citing friction in security and trade ties and calling for a stronger, more equal partnership.

Steel urged Seoul to ensure fair treatment for U.S. companies like Coupang and said South Korea should take a more leading role alongside the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific. Key numbers: Remarks made Wednesday, Oct. 21, in Seoul; summit agreement reached in October last year; Korean War dated 1950-53.