South Korean President Moon Jae-in was well aware that the optics would be crucial during his visit to Washington to meet U.S. President Donald Trump, who values personal chemistry above all else in dealing with foreign leaders.
The June 30 meeting was seen as the first big test for Moon, who was elected only seven weeks ago after the impeachment of his predecessor. The stakes were high, amid broad expectations that the visit could determine the future of the U.S.-South Korean security alliance at a time when North Korea is accelerating its nuclear and missile programs.
