South Korea will elect a new president on 3 June to replace Yoon Suk Yeol, who was removed from office for placing the country under martial law for six hours in December. The winner will be tasked with managing the political and economic fallout of Yoon's move, which plunged the country in deep turmoil and divided opinions.

Mr Trump may also seek to restart negotiations with North Korea’s dictator, Kim Jong Un. On that matter, he and Mr Lee, an advocate of more engagement with the North, could find common cause. But if Mr Trump seeks to cut a deal over Mr Lee’s head, the talks could fuel South Korean fears of abandonment.

South Koreans are voting in a snap presidential election, seeking to restore stability after six months of turmoil sparked by a shock martial law.