Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Sarah Rogers and Republic of Korea Ministry of Foreign Affairs Deputy Minister for Public Diplomacy Ambassador Lim Sang-woo held the second U.S.-Republic of Korea Public Diplomacy Dialogue in Seoul on April 1. The meeting focused on strengthening public diplomacy within the modern U.S.-ROK Alliance and advancing commitments made by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and ROK President Lee Jae-myung during their November 2025 joint fact sheet.
The officials discussed how shared messaging, cultural diplomacy, and coordinated responses to global information and security challenges can reinforce the close ties between American and Korean citizens. They highlighted the importance of these connections in maintaining a strong alliance.
During the dialogue, Under Secretary Rogers reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to freedom of expression and privacy, emphasizing the need for a digital ecosystem built on trusted infrastructure that encourages innovation and open debate. Rogers also addressed digital regulations such as implementation of amendments to the Network Act, as well as strategies for countering anti-American foreign propaganda through counterspeech rather than censorship.
The two sides explored ways public diplomacy could support shipbuilding initiatives and maritime workforce development, recognizing South Korea’s leadership in advanced shipbuilding technology. Youth programs like the U.S.-Japan-ROK Young Trilateral Leaders program were also discussed as important investments in preparing future leaders to address issues such as artificial intelligence, energy, and economic security.
To mark America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, Rogers and Lim signed a Memorandum of Cooperation focused on "Freedom 250" collaboration intended to celebrate enduring alliance ties with commemorative events. Both parties agreed to continue their coordination over the next year with plans for Washington to host the next round of discussions.
