Seoul, South Korea: South Korea will host the Group of 20 (G20) summit in 2028, President Lee Jae-Myung announced, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to strengthening the forum as a leading platform for international cooperation.
Speaking during the third session of this year’s G20 summit in South Africa, President Lee said South Korea will take on the role “with a profound sense of responsibility.”
“As one of the founding nations that helped shape the G20, which has guided the international community in times of crisis, South Korea is committed to assuming the chairmanship again in 2028, marking the 20th anniversary of the summit’s launch,” Lee said.
President Lee also expressed his respect and gratitude to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for his leadership as this year’s G20 chair.
On Saturday, G20 leaders adopted a declaration reaffirming their commitment to multilateralism and the equal participation of all member nations in the group’s events, including summits.
The declaration also confirmed the schedule of upcoming presidencies: the United States in 2026, the United Kingdom in 2027, and South Korea in 2028.
Why It Matters:
The outreach signals Seoul’s attempt to rebalance ties among its two most important neighbors while navigating strategic pressure from the U.S.–China rivalry. A potential Lee–Xi meeting could help thaw strained relations on trade, security, and North Korea.
Coordination with Japan is equally significant as both countries face shared challenges such as supply-chain fragility, regional military tensions, and economic uncertainty. These engagements set the tone for Northeast Asia’s diplomatic landscape ahead of South Korea hosting the G20.
South Korea is seeking diplomatic stability and economic resilience amid regional tension. China aims to manage its relationship with Seoul while countering U.S. influence in East Asia. Japan is focused on strengthening ties with neighbors who share concerns about regional security and economic shocks. The wider G20 community is watching how Northeast Asian cooperation develops as it affects global trade, security, and governance dynamics.
What’s Next:
Lee awaits confirmation on a potential summit with Xi in Beijing. Seoul and Tokyo are expected to explore follow-up talks to reinforce the political goodwill shown at the G20. As preparations begin for the 2028 G20 hosted by South Korea, expect intensified diplomatic activity and efforts to position Seoul as a convening power in global affairs.
