Rep. Michelle Steel, R-Calif., is under consideration to serve as the U.S. ambassador to South Korea in President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. Steel, the first Korean-American woman elected to Congress, recently lost her reelection bid by a narrow 604-vote margin. Discussions about her appointment come amid heightened interest in South Korea due to significant political upheaval.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has reportedly urged Trump to appoint Steel, joined by endorsements from former GOP House Speakers Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., and Newt Gingrich, R-Ga. Steel’s strong ties to South Korean leaders and her close relationship with Trump are key factors fueling her candidacy. During her reelection campaign, Trump described her as an “America First Patriot” with his “complete and total endorsement.”
The urgency surrounding the South Korea ambassadorship has intensified following political chaos in the country. President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached on December 3 after declaring martial law, and his successor, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, was impeached days later for his involvement in Yoon’s actions. Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok now holds interim leadership, raising concerns about North Korea exploiting the turmoil.
Steel, 72, is viewed as uniquely qualified for the role. Born in Seoul, she has cultivated strong relationships within South Korea’s political landscape and is well-regarded in the Korean-American and international business communities. Before her election to Congress in 2020, Steel served on the California Board of Equalization and as an Orange County supervisor. Her deep connections and diplomatic skills are seen as assets in navigating the complex dynamics of U.S.-South Korea relations.
A decision from Trump regarding the ambassadorship is expected within the week. Supporters argue that Steel’s appointment could help stabilize U.S.-South Korea ties during a period of uncertainty and bolster efforts to address potential threats from North Korea.
