South Korea Drafts UN Resolution on Iran Sanctions Amid Nuclear Diplomacy

South Korea is at a critical juncture in its international relations, with missed opportunities in nuclear energy collaboration with the United States threatening to undermine a vital partnership necessary to meet ambitious U.S. nuclear expansion goals. President Lee Jae-myung's recent summit with President Trump highlighted a strategic diplomatic role division aimed at engaging North Korea, where Trump acts as a 'Peacemaker' and Lee as a 'Pacemaker,' while Japan is considered a potential 'Playmaker' to facilitate progress despite domestic challenges. Additionally, South Korea, currently presiding over the UN Security Council, has drafted a resolution to permanently lift international sanctions on Iran, although adoption remains uncertain amid competing proposals from Western and Eastern powers, reflecting the complex geopolitical environment. Meanwhile, shifting global energy dynamics see the U.S. increasing its liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to Asia as countries distance themselves from Qatar amid Strait of Hormuz security concerns, with South Korean industries poised to benefit from increased LNG carrier demand. These developments underscore South Korea's multifaceted role in regional security, energy supply chains, and diplomatic efforts amidst evolving U.S.-China rivalry and nuclear non-proliferation challenges.