President Lee of South Korea is preparing for a significant summit with President Trump, with discussions expected to center on trade, defense, and relations with North Korea. As the two leaders meet, Lee faces the challenge of addressing U.S. demands regarding troop costs and strategic flexibility of U.S. Forces Korea. The summit takes place against a backdrop of rising tensions with China, and both leaders are under pressure to reinforce the U.S.-South Korea alliance. Key topics will likely include trade tariffs affecting South Korean companies like Hyundai and Samsung, as well as security assurances amid instability in the region. Lee is also seeking to emphasize the importance of cooperation in energy and avoid further conflicts with Trump during their discussions.